In a twist that has sent shockwaves through the local football scene, former Kaizer Chiefs winger turned outspoken pundit Junior Khanye has boldly predicted that midfield maestro Sipho Mbule is destined to wear the gold and black of Amakhosi.
The 28-year-old playmaker shocked the South African football fraternity earlier this month by signing with Iraqi outfit Zakho FC immediately following his high-profile release from reigning champions Orlando Pirates.
While Mbule prepares for an unconventional chapter in the Middle East, Khanye views this move as a strategic pitstop before an inevitable return to a Soweto giant.
A Blessing in Disguise for the Ex-Buccaneer
Mbule’s exit from Mayfair came after a tumultuous 12-month spell. Having joined Orlando Pirates on a short-term one-year contract after his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns, his undeniable on-field talent was unfortunately overshadowed by recurring off-the-field disciplinary issues.
When the Buccaneers opted against renewing his contract, the Iraqi top-flight came calling. Khanye believes stepping away from the intense South African media fishbowl is exactly what the player needs to save his career.
“What is important for Sipho is to play football. Sipho is talented, he made a good decision by leaving the country, it’s a blessing in disguise. Sipho will still come back to play for one of the big teams in the country, and after this, he might return to Kaizer Chiefs.” — Junior Khanye via KickOff
“A Final Chance to Repent and Rebuild”
Khanye did not mince his words regarding the midfielder’s history of squandering opportunities at both Chloorkop and Mayfair. He urged the former Bafana Bafana star to use his time in Iraq for deep self-reflection:
- Owning the Mistakes: “He must first admit to himself [that] he is the one who hurt his career,” Khanye added.
- A Rare Lifeline: “He must thank God he is getting another chance, some players don’t get so many chances in football.”
With Kaizer Chiefs currently undergoing a massive technical and squad overhaul under newly appointed French manager Fernando Da Cruz, the club is prioritizing discipline and structure. If Mbule can find his feet and rediscover his world-class form in Iraq, the path back to the Betway Premiership through Naturena might just be waiting for him.
