Itu Khune shares financial lesson; Reveals property portfolio

Itumeleng Khune, the celebrated former captain of Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana, delivered a powerful and personal message on financial literacy, revealing that he had secured his post-football future through a multimillion-rand property portfolio built since his debut season.

Khune, who has been off the professional pitch since leaving Amakhosi at the close of the 2023/24 season, was a keynote speaker alongside his wife, Sphelele, at the recent launch of Touchline Magazine in Gaborone.

The Eight Properties and ‘Plan B’ For Itu Khune

Addressing current and future generations of athletes, the legendary goalkeeper stressed that long-term security comes from early investment and discipline. Khune disclosed that his financial planning began in his first professional season, culminating in a significant achievement: full ownership of eight properties.

“I want to advise current and future generations to invest in their craft and give it their all in their different industries,” Khune stated, as quoted by the magazine. “They must have a Plan B, meaning while you are still playing, you should build something that will carry you after retirement.”

The 38-year-old shared his journey, which began in the 2007/08 season when he rose to prominence at Chiefs under then-coach Muhsin Ertugral.

“I bought my first property in my maiden season,” he added. “Today I own eight properties, all fully paid off with title deeds. Do not leave it until it’s too late. I started thinking about the future while I was still playing, and that helped me.”

Retirement is Inevitable, Not Optional

Khune emphasised that the end of a sports career is not a planned occasion but an inevitable certainty that players must prepare for.

“Retirement is not something you plan for; it happens,” he explained.

Beyond bricks and mortar, the three-time league winner urged footballers to utilize modern digital resources for continuous self-education on emerging financial trends and opportunities. His key takeaway for any athlete facing an uncertain future was simple: “Investing early gives you peace of mind because you won’t panic when your contract is not renewed.”