By Amaechi Agbo

Agent of Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Mohammed Lawal has said the goalkeeper temporarily stepped away from football in February this year after enduring a series of devastating personal losses,

Nwabali asked South African club Chippa United to terminate his contract in February after going through an emotionally challenging period.

However, the Nigeria international was unable to secure a move to another club before the end of the season.

The 30-year-old experienced the heartbreaking loss of his grandmother, father, and mother within the space of one month, a tragedy that significantly affected his decision to take a break from the game.

Speaking to ESPN, Lawal said the difficult circumstances surrounding the former Enyimba goalkeeper were not widely known by the public.

“It has been very difficult for Stanley, people don’t always know what is going on with these players. They only see them on the field.

“They know them as footballers, but they don’t know that they are human beings too. Like everyone else, they go through life’s challenges.” Lawal said

Despite the difficult period, Nwabali has now resumed his career, with Chippa United confirming his return to the club last week.

His decision to “temporarily” leave Chippa United put his first choice position with the Super Eagles under jeopardy as he was not called up for the teams Invitational Tournament and friendlies in May and June.