Kaizer Chiefs' most experienced player, goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, is unlikely to play for the club anymore following Amakhosi's decision not to renew his playing contract.
Last season, Khune signed a one-year extension, which was indicated as his final contract with the club. Patrick Mabedi, a former Amakhosi defender and captain, shared his thoughts on Khune's potential retirement if he chooses not to join another club.
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Speaking to Soccer Laduma in an exclusive interview, Mabedi expressed that retiring as a one-club player is a significant honour and a rarity in today's football world. He believes that this aligns with Khune's desires and respects his legacy as a former Bafana Bafana number one.
"It is good to have him there to help the development of the team. He has been there since his youth and that's the only team he knows. I know it's what he wanted, to play for the same team all his career so that he is honoured and respected as one of the best that was," Mabedi told the Siya crew.
Mabedi also suggested that the club should support Khune's transition from player to mentor.
"Now the club should send him to school to develop his skills both in coaching and other areas of the game as he helps the youngsters come through the ranks. I know Khune very well and I know he could have wanted to retire at Chiefs and make the best of it while still at the team," Mabedi told Soccer Laduma.
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However, Mabedi acknowledged the complexities of the situation, noting the uncertainty surrounding Khune's thoughts and the club's plans for his future.
"It's a difficult one because we don't know what is in his mind and the club's plan for him right now. But knowing Chiefs management I know they want only what is the best for him. Chiefs are like home and family to him and you saw how they honoured him last season for the years he had spent at the club. He would also want to honour them and I think that's what both parties are talking about. It will be really good if he retires there and writes his own history as having played for only one club in his career. I know he wants that deep down in his heart. He loves Kaizer Chiefs with all his heart. That I know," Mabedi observed.
This poignant chapter in Khune's career highlights the deep emotional ties and mutual respect between a legendary player and his lifelong club, underscoring the profound impact he has had on Kaizer Chiefs both on and off the field.
