Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune and his employers have appeared to differ in their plans on what should happen in their relationship going forward, while insiders have hinted on what is likely to take place at the end of the season.
On Saturday as Chiefs played their last home match of the 2023/24 season against Polokwane City, Khune was honoured for his 25 years of service to the Soweto giants though it was in front of a disappointing small home crowd at FNB Stadium.
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While some thought it might have been the club's way of bidding farewell to the veteran keeper, the 36-year-old was quick to announce during the proceedings on the day that he believes that he can still play for a few more years.
The Ventersdorp-born player is hoping to have discussions with the club regarding his future though it is unclear at this stage if Amakhosi have any plans of keeping him as part of the playing personnel for next season.
In June last year when Chiefs offered Khune a one-year contract extension, the club did make it clear that the deal was his final one as their player.
At the time of the announcement, it had been hinted that Khune would be roped in an ambassadorial role at the club to work closely with the marketing department while remaining part of the Amakhosi family.
However, indications are that the experienced shot-stopper isn't entertaining the thought of hanging his gloves yet, and according to sources, he could follow a similar path as of Happy Jele who after his many years of loyal service to Orlando Pirates decided to leave when the club didn't extend his playing contract despite being offered a role in a different position.
"Itumeleng Khune isn't even thinking about retiring yet, and that you should know. But why should he retire? He is 36 years old (turning 37 in June), and for a goalkeeper that isn't a retirement age, especially for someone who is on top of his game. I talk to the boy quite often and he feels he still needs to play because he is enjoying his game despite having been limited for game time this season," said the source.
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"So, if an opportunity for him to play isn't available at Chiefs, expect Khune to assess his options elsewhere because all he wants is to play. There are a lot of clubs that can do with Khune's experience in the PSL and why should he retire if he feels he can still contribute? Again, it's a South African football mentality that players should be forced out of the game at a certain age and that can't always be right. The guy must be allowed to enjoy his football if he feels he isn't done yet," the source said.
Sekhukhune United are one of the clubs that were previously linked with the man fondly known as Mzansi's finest.
Soccer Laduma contacted Chiefs for comment but the club had not responded by the time this story was published.
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