Itumeleng Khune returns to Kaizer Chiefs: It’s official!
Kaizer Chiefs has issued an official statement confirming Itumeleng Khune has returned to the club. Will he play in the Soweto Derby?
Towards the end of last year, Kaizer Chiefs confirmed in a statement that Itumeleng Khune had been suspended for misconduct after apparently arriving at training smelling of alcohol.
The club have suggested they will seek to support the veteran keeper despite his misdemeanours, and it was thought that he would be welcomed back to the club after the current Afcon break. This ultimately didn’t transpire immediately, but the club has now confirmed his return.
Khune last featured for Chiefs on 11 November 2023.
KAIZER CHIEFS RELEASED THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT ON ITUMELENG KHUNE
“Kaizer Chiefs’ longest serving player, Itumeleng Khune, has rejoined the team following his separation from his teammates in order to fulfill certain conditions required of him before he could be allowed back at the Village.
“Khune was suspended early in December to afford him an opportunity to complete a corrective programme designed for him to meet set expectations for a professional athlete. Upon completion of the programme, a report from an independent body of professionals was received and shared with the technical team to demonstrate that he had done all that was required.
“During his three month absence, Khune says he fully participated in the programmes set out for him and believes they assisted with his personal growth and development as a professional athlete as well as an individual. He looks forward to working hard at training and sharing his knowledge with his teammates.
“In January and February, Kaizer Chiefs also allowed Khune to participate on the panel of SABC Sport analysts during the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The experience gained from the exercise will hopefully benefit his life in future.
“As Kaizer Chiefs, we welcome Itu back to the home he has known for over 25 years and we remain committed to our core values of discipline, integrity, respect, and unity.”
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?
It still remains to be seen whether Khune will remain at Chiefs beyond this season, especially at a time when it’s been confirmed that 29-year-old Brandon Petersen has signed a new contract with the club that will run until June 2026.
Kaizer Chiefs have also successfully executed a contract extension for No 1 keeper Bruce Bvuma.