Itumeleng Khune has described his journey at Kaizer Chiefs as a player as a ‘sad but iconic’ one ahead of the new season.
The ex-Bafana Bafana goalie penned a contract extension at Chiefs on Friday to take his impressive career to two decades.
The 2023/24 season will also mark Khune’s last in football as he set to hang up his boots at Amakhosi. He has since reacted to signing his new and last deal in SA’s top-flight.
“Sad but it has been an iconic journey,” said Khune, who is Chiefs longest-serving player and club captain.
Khune expressed his gratitude to Dr Kaizer Motaung
Itumeleng Khune also expressed his gratitude to Chiefs’ chairman Dr Kaizer Motaung for affording him the opportunity to don the famous black and gold colours of the club for 20 years, a new record for Amakhosi.
The 36-year-old did not look back since making his Chiefs debut back in 2007 against Jomo Cosmos as a 20-year-old.
“Charity begins at home, I am who I am today of the opportunity you gave me Dr Kazier Motaung,” added Khune, who has made 423 appearances at Chiefs
“You have taught, developed and nurtured me to be the humble leader I am today. I’m grateful for trusting me with the brand for 20 years. Khosi4life.”
While Khune will be expected to fight for a place under new coach Molefi Ntseki, the veteran goalkeeper will also transition into an administration and coaching role at the club. In addition, he will also work with the marketing division of Chiefs.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:https://soccernews24.co.za/2023/06/30/khune-handed-swansong-season-by-kaizer-chiefs/
The upcoming season will see the Ventersdorp-born “broaden his technical acumen, as he transitions into a new coaching and ambassadorial role working with the marketing division at the club.
Khune, who holds the record for playing in the most number of successive seasons as a Chiefs player in the PSL era (16) “will boost his coaching aspirations working under the returning Rainer Dinkelacker, as well as coaches Aubrey Mathibe and Rory Minnaar in the goalkeeping department.”
On the international scene, Khune boasts 91 Bafana appearances. He is the second most capped Bafana player behind former skipper Aaron Mokoena.