Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed plans to transition their veteran goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune, into new roles within the club as a goalkeeping coach and ambassador. This move aims to leverage Khune’s vast experience and popularity, benefiting both the club’s goalkeeping department and its marketing efforts. Khune’s journey with Kaizer Chiefs has been storied, marked by significant achievements and a few controversies.
Despite the club’s plans for Khune’s retirement and transition into a coaching role, the player himself has openly expressed a desire to continue playing. This has created a conflict of interest between his personal ambitions and the club’s strategic direction. The situation was further complicated by an incident in November 2023, where Khune was suspended from all club activities and stripped of his captaincy after arriving at training under the influence of alcohol. This incident cast a shadow over his future with the club, raising questions about his discipline and long-term role at Chiefs.
Read: Kaizer Chiefs Have Recently Welcomed New Talent To Their Training Sessions.
However, Khune made a return to the first team in March 2024, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to the sport. Yet, his future with the club remains uncertain, especially after it was reported that he was absent from the squad that traveled to Turkey for their pre-season training camp. This absence has fueled speculation about his status within the team and whether he is still part of the club’s plans moving forward.
William Shongwe, a former goalkeeper, and commentator, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Khune’s omission from the pre-season squad indicates that he is no longer considered a crucial part of the team’s future. Shongwe advised that if another opportunity arises for Khune, he should seize it, hinting that a move away from Kaizer Chiefs might be in his best interest.
Khune’s contributions to Kaizer Chiefs are undeniable. Since turning professional, he has only played for the Glamour Boys, making an impressive 347 appearances. During his tenure, he conceded 274 goals and kept 153 clean sheets. His trophy cabinet includes three DStv Premiership titles, four Telkom Knockout Cups, three MTN8 titles, and two Nedbank Cups, making him one of the most decorated players in the club’s history.
Read: Why Itumeleng Khune was excluded from the Squad traveling to Europe for Pre season Camp in Turkey
As the Soweto giants embark on a new chapter under the leadership of experienced Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi, the focus is on building a team for the future. This transition period may see the departure of long-serving players like Khune, who have been instrumental in the club’s past successes. Khune’s future remains a topic of intense discussion among fans and pundits alike, as they wait to see whether he will embrace his new role within the club or seek new opportunities elsewhere.
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