Kaizer Chiefs stalwart goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has boldly declared his aspirations for the future, drawing inspiration from the longevity of football legends such as Italy’s Gianluigi Buffon and Egypt’s Essam El Hadary. Khune, who has been an integral part of the Chiefs’ first team since 2004, is not ready to hang up his gloves just yet.
As the longest-serving player at Naturena, Khune played a crucial role in Chiefs’ recent victory over Cape Town Spurs, showcasing his enduring prowess. With the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates approaching, the 36-year-old shot-stopper dismisses any thoughts of retirement and emphasizes his commitment to the game.
Despite Chiefs announcing a change in Khune’s role for the season, with possibilities of serving as a backup, the veteran goalkeeper remains unfazed. He attributes this to his dedication and willingness to compete for a starting position, highlighting that performance on the field will ultimately determine his role.
Khune, who has featured in four games this season, conceding five goals across all competitions, maintains confidence in his abilities, expressing that his body can carry him until the age of 40 and beyond. He challenges skeptics by referencing the extended careers of Buffon and El Hadary, asserting that age should not be a deterrent.
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As the Bafana Bafana legend prepares to face arch-rivals Pirates, he remains focused on contributing to the team’s success. Khune emphasizes that decisions about his future will be based on his performances and statistics at the end of the season, underscoring that players, including goalkeepers, have retired and returned to competition in the past. The seasoned goalkeeper’s determination and resilience echo the spirit of enduring football legends, instilling confidence in his ability to continue making significant contributions to Kaizer Chiefs.
