Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stated that leagues across West Africa lag behind those in South Africa and Morocco due to weak structures and low player salaries.

Speaking to Brila FM, Stanley Nwabali who is currently without a club, said poor pay and limited organisation continue to push players to seek opportunities abroad.

“In West Africa, our leagues are not as good. We want to go to Europe, we want to come to South Africa, we want to go to Morocco,” Nwabali said.

“The league, the pay is a little bit nice for a certain level of your team.

“If your league is nice, you’re getting paid, you’re getting sponsors, what are you leaving for?”

Nwabali said only a handful of clubs in the region can offer competitive wages, leaving many footballers with little incentive to remain at home. He added that stronger infrastructure and better administration give South African and Moroccan competitions a clear advantage.

The goalkeeper began his career in the Nigeria Premier Football League, representing Go Round FC, Enyimba FC, Lobi Stars FC and Katsina United FC before moving to Chippa United in 2022.

Nwabali is currently seeking a new club, months after parting ways with South African-based Chippa United.