Itumeleng Khune Dismisses Retirement Claims, Still Open to Football Return
Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has dismissed speculation about his retirement, insisting he is still eager to continue playing professional football.
Despite his departure from Kaizer Chiefs at the end of last season and his absence from the Premier Soccer League, Khune remains optimistic about returning to the pitch.
According to iDiski Times, Khune dismissed retirement speculation, insisting he is still ready to play professional football.
He emphasized that he is maintaining his fitness and staying prepared for an opportunity to resume his career.
“Only God will decide that it’s over. Right now, I still want to play. I’m keeping fit and playing five-a-side football, getting myself ready for any phone call that may come through,” said Khune.
At 37 years old, Khune believes age should not be a barrier to extending his career, citing Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who remains active at 39 years old.
“If Onyango is still playing at 39 going on 40, why should I be in a hurry at 37 going on 38? If a call comes through now, I’m going,” he added.
iHarare News reports that Khune has also expressed interest in transitioning into goalkeeper coaching, particularly at the Bafana Bafana national team.
While he remains focused on playing, he hopes to contribute to developing young goalkeepers once he transitions into coaching.
He previously completed a FIFA and SAFA Goalkeeper Coaching Course in 2022, reinforcing his long-term plans to stay involved in football.
Beyond football, Khune has also ventured into business, investing in construction and holding shares in betting company TopBet, preparing for life beyond professional play.
Despite these ventures, he continues to monitor developments in the football world, keeping an eye on potential openings to return to the sport.
Reports indicate that Kaizer Chiefs had offered Khune a commercial or marketing role, but he turned it down, choosing instead to remain directly involved in the game.
Additionally, he has been vocal about Kaizer Chiefs’ current goalkeeper lineup, stating that the club lacks a consistent shot-stopper capable of delivering strong performances throughout the season.
With his commitment to staying fit and his vast experience, Khune remains ready to answer any opportunity that may allow him to return to professional football.
