The Glamour Boys are keen on having the legendary custodian serve the club on a different role after his heroics on the pitch.
Former Kaizer Chiefs custodian William Shongwe has questioned Itumeleng Khune's move to quit South Africa's top-flight football.
On several occasions, Khune has reiterated his desire to continue playing past 40 because he is still fit. However, the Glamour Boys are not ready to grant him his wish; they feel he is better placed to take a role off the pitch.
The former Bafana Bafana international goalkeeper has been serving Amakhosi for the last 25 years.
Khune can play for many PSL teams
The Soweto giants are considering giving Khune a post in the marketing department alongside its director Jessica Motaung.
However, Shongwe insists the 37-year-old is still better than some goalkeepers in the league, and shouldn't hang the boots just yet.
“If they don’t extend, without a doubt, Khune should leave Chiefs as he made it clear that he still wants to play,” the ex-keeper told Far Post.
“I am sure he has mixed feelings, but there are still teams where he can help out in the Premiership. Many teams in the Premiership have goalkeepers that are not up to the standards [of the PSL], and in Khune, you don’t just have a goalie. You have a leader; you buy several things in one. He’s got charisma and leadership skills, and he still has the ability [to play].
“Khune can also keep the spirit of a team high and the mentality of the players. … I believe it is too early to prepare him for a role on the sidelines. Goalkeepers can play for a long time; I mean, Andre Arendse retired at over 40, and Denis Onyango is around 38 now. But it is a question of whether he wants to put in the work or he expects his reputation to carry him.
“I strongly believe Khune can rise to the top again but the mindset and attitude will be the key, it does not happen automatically, you still have to be prepared to put in the hard work.”
How are Chiefs preparing for life without Khune?
In the ongoing transfer window, the Glamour Boys have signed Rwanda international Fiacre Ntwari. The Amavubi star played 24 games for TS Galaxy across all competitions and managed to keep nine clean sheets.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi might opt to start the season with him after Bruce Bvuma and Brandon Petersen's struggles in the previous campaign.
Amakhosi have further signed experienced players like Angola international Inacio Miguel, and former Mamelodi Sundowns star Gaston Sirino. Others who have been brought in are defenders Rushwin Dortley and Bongani Sam.
