As Itumeleng Khune’s contract with Kaizer Chiefs nears its end, there’s a cloud of uncertainty over his future with the club. The seasoned goalkeeper, whose association with the team spans two decades, is at a crossroads as his current contract is set to expire shortly.
Khune, who has been a pivotal figure for the Chiefs since his first-team break in 2007, has amassed over 300 appearances and captained the side for many years. Despite an announcement last year indicating his final season as a player before transitioning to a coaching role, Khune has expressed his desire to continue playing.
The club celebrated Khune’s contributions during their last home game of the season, yet reports from Soccer Laduma suggest a split within the club’s leadership regarding his role moving forward. Some advocate for his continuation as a player, while others see him fitting into a managerial capacity.
The debate over Khune’s future was further fueled by Hlompho Kekana’s comments on SABC’s Soccer Zone, where the former Mamelodi Sundowns captain suggested it might be time for Khune to retire. Kekana emphasized the importance of leaving the sport on a high note rather than being forced out.
With his legacy including captaining Bafana Bafana and leading Kaizer Chiefs to league victories, Khune’s decision remains a topic of intense speculation as the deadline approaches.