Itumeleng Khune turns down Kaizer Chiefs offer to coach youth team as he hoped for senior goalkeeper role in South Africa

After spending a jaw-dropping 25 years at Kaizer Chiefs, Itumeleng Khune’s days on the pitch in a Chiefs jersey have officially come to an end.

But as fans wondered what was next for the legendary goalkeeper, things didn’t unfold quite the way many expected — especially not for Khune himself.

A Goodbye… with Conditions

When the club announced Khune would be stepping away from playing duties, they made it clear that they still considered him part of the Amakhosi family.

In fact, they even offered him a non-playing role to stay involved.

The offer? A coaching gig. But not quite the kind Khune had in mind.

Khune Turns Down U13 Coaching Role

In an interview with KickOff Magazine, the 38-year-old revealed that Chiefs offered him a position coaching the Under-13 goalkeepers.

But for Khune, who’s used to operating under high-stakes pressure, that suggestion didn’t sit right.

“I just couldn’t see myself working with little kids while still carrying the emotional weight of the past few seasons,” Khune shared.

“I’ve been through a lot, and I didn’t want to end up projecting that frustration onto young boys who are just trying to live their dream.”

Hoping for a Senior Coaching Role Instead

Khune had envisioned a more senior role — ideally as the first team goalkeeper coach.

That way, he felt his years of top-level experience could truly make an impact.

He even mentioned that he has an eye for talent and could see himself contributing to the club’s scouting efforts someday.

“I thought they might offer me something more aligned with my experience,” he said. “But the club clearly has its own direction and plans.”

A Legacy Etched in Gold and Clean Sheets

There’s no denying the mark Khune has left on South African football.

With 347 appearances and 153 clean sheets to his name, he’s earned his status as a true legend of the game.

Few players stay with one club their entire career — even fewer leave behind the kind of legacy Khune built.

What’s Next for the Shot-Stopper?

While Khune may not have gotten the role he hoped for at Kaizer Chiefs, he’s not closing the door on football just yet.

Whether it’s scouting, coaching senior players, or pursuing something entirely new, the next chapter is still being written.

For now, one thing’s clear — Khune’s story with football is far from over.