Kaizer Chiefs are at a pivotal moment regarding the future of their longest-serving player, goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, whose contract renewal remains uncertain.
Amidst speculation about his potential retirement, opinions within the football community are divided about the best path forward for the former Bafana Bafana number one.
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In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma, former Chiefs defender Dominic Isaacs shared his perspective, suggesting that Khune should consider retiring while he is still respected for his contributions to the game.
"Khune has contributed a lot both to the club and the country as a whole. If it was for me he could have retired now. I personally was in such a situation. I know how it feels to be on that situation where you feel like you are being forced to retire while you still want to play," Isaacs told the Siya crew.
Isaacs empathized with Khune's current predicament, recalling his own career experiences.
"But personally I would say it's good to retire while people are still holding you in high esteem. You have to uphold your pride and dignity while you still can. At times football can be cruel at the end of a career and it should not be like that to players like Itu (Khune)," Isaacs told Soccer Laduma.
The decision now lies with Khune, who must weigh his desire to continue playing against the benefits of retiring on a high note.
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"From the way things are, Chiefs have made their decision at that to say Khune has to retire. Now it's all up to him. He has done extremely well for the club. Does he want to play and make his own decision as when to retire or is this the right time to retire? That's up to him but I feel he should retire because there is no team in South Africa that can afford him. You know when a player comes from Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates or SuperSport United it becomes very hard for other clubs to sign them because they think and know that he doesn't come cheap. So it's hard for him to move to another club now even if he wants to continue playing somewhere else. I can relate to this. You want to be in control and don't end it like this. But now it's all up to him," Isaacs observed.
As the situation unfolds, Khune's legacy as one of South Africa's most celebrated goalkeepers remains undeniable. Whether he chooses to retire now or extends his playing career, his impact on Chiefs and South African football will be remembered for generations.
As discussions about his contract continue, the football community and Chiefs fans eagerly await Khune's decision, which will undoubtedly be a significant moment in the club's recent history.
