Bafana legend advises Itumeleng Khune to retire

Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfield legend Hlompho Kekana has advised veteran goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune to retire. Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed that Khune’s current contract will be his last. Despite this, the 36-year-old expressed his desire to continue playing after a goalless draw with Polokwane City.

CHIEFS OFFER COACHING ROLE, NOT PLAYING CONTRACT

Kaizer Chiefs are ready to offer Khune a position as a goalkeeping coach but are unwilling to renew his contract as a player. Kekana, speaking to SABC’s Soccer Zone, emphasised the importance of accepting reality. “I wish he could understand and face the reality that he will never play forever,” Kekana said. He further advised, “leave the game before you start hating it. The system doesn’t want you anymore. Make sure you move on before resentment sets in.”

KHUNE’S ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER

Bafana Bafana legend Kekana highlighted Khune’s impressive career, noting his achievements with Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs. “He played for Bafana; he captained the Kaizer Chiefs team that won the league. He has done so much. What more does he need to prove, and to whom?”

Kekana himself retired at 37 after a decorated career, which included nine DStv Premiership titles—three with SuperSport United and six with Mamelodi Sundowns. Renowned for his long-range goals, his memorable strike from inside his half against Cameroon in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier earned a Fifa Puskas Award nomination.

CAVIN JOHNSON’S STRUGGLES CONTINUE AT KAIZER CHIEFS

Johnson, currently leading Kaizer Chiefs, faces severe criticism as his short tenure shows little improvement. Since taking over in October 2023, Johnson has managed only six wins out of 21 games. Which has led to an inevitable finish no higher than eighth place.

Comparatively, Johnson’s performance is dismal. With a winning rate of 29 %, which could improve slightly to 32 % if Chiefs win against Cape Town Spurs. Johnson fares only better than Gavin Hunt, who had a 27.27% win rate. Despite his efforts, Johnson’s record in the Nedbank Cup and league positions highlight his struggles.

Johnson’s end-of-season stats are concerning. Winning just one of his last nine games, he faces a must-win scenario against Cape Town Spurs to match Hunt’s exit record of two wins in ten. Other former Chiefs coaches, such as Steve Komphela and Arthur Zwane, exited with better track records, leaving Johnson with a potentially damaging legacy.

WILL KHUNE AND JOHNSON EXIT GRACEFULLY?

The end of the season marks a critical juncture for both Itumeleng Khune and Cavin Johnson. As Khune contemplates his future off the field, Johnson battles to salvage his reputation. The coming weeks will determine if they can leave with dignity or if they will be remembered for overstaying their welcome in South African football.