Itumeleng Khune: Kaizer Chiefs Veteran Goalkeeper Urged to ‘Retire’ Amid Uncertain Future

• Itumeleng Khune has been told to 'retire'
• The ex-Bafana Bafana keeper is Kaizer Chiefs' longest serving player
• His form has dipped in the last few seasons and he has struggled to stay healthy

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune is the club's longest-serving player, but it appears his time at the club could be coming to an end.

Mike Makaab, a renowned agent, has urged the 36-year-old ex-Bafana Bafana goalkeeper to step aside to give a chance to younger players.

Khune was handed a one-year deal at the start of the 2023/24 season and the club said it will be his last contract before he retires. He was expected to mentor the likes of Brandon Petersen and Bruce Bvuma.

He has struggled for consistency in the last few seasons due to injury and a sharp decline in form. Last season, he played just 13 games in all competitions for Chiefs, per Transfermarkt.

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He recently said he wants to emulate legendary goalkeepers like Gianluigi Buffon and Essam El-Hadary, who played into their 40s.

The goalkeeper is currently suspended by the club for disciplinary issues, and it is unclear when he will return to action.

Khune advised to 'retire'

Makaab lauded the legendary goalkeeper but said the time was right for him to walk away and give the youngsters a chance.

I do think it’s time for him to hand over the mantle and how wonderful to see Bruce Bvuma who did so well. To see Bruce Bvuma coming into the starting XI, three clean-sheets in three victories, time for the younger generation to start stamping their authority," via GOAL.

Khune's deal expires in June, and it is unclear where he will go from there. However, before the start of the 2023/24 season, he said he was not ready to retire and gave reasons why, per Far Post.

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“But like I’m saying, I’m not ready to retire. If I had to win or lead the team to win that one silverware this season, I think I might call it quits and give the responsibility to Brandon[Petersen], Bruce Bvuma and Bontle Molefe."

Chiefs last won a trophy in the 2014/15 season, a league title under Stuart Baxter.

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A list of Khune's achievements

Sports Brief recently compiled a list of Itumeleng Khune's greatest career achievements.

Itumeleng Khune has played for Kaizer Chiefs for 16 years, amassing a list of accolades.

In total, Khune has made 345 appearances for Kaizer Chiefs, keeping 151 clean sheets.