Sekhukhune United secure ex-Bafana star Lebogang Phiri

In a move that adds significant veteran leadership to their midfield, Sekhukhune United have officially confirmed the signing of ex-Bafana Bafana international Lebogang Phiri.

The 31-year-old makes his long-awaited return to South African shores following an extensive 13-season career across the European continent. While Phiri has earned six caps for the national team, this move marks a unique milestone: he is set to make his professional debut in the domestic league.

🚨PRESS RELEASE🚨

For Immediate Release!!!

🦔🦔🦔#Adibahlabe#LeboPhiriSigns pic.twitter.com/YBBZt2WuPa

— Sekhukhune United F.C. (@SekhukhuneFc) January 12, 2026

A Long Road Home For Lebogang Phiri

Phiri’s journey is a rare one in South African football. A product of the Bidvest Wits development ranks, he bypassed the local professional leagues entirely, moving directly to Denmark as a youngster.

His European tenure was defined by longevity and consistency:

Denmark: He rose through the junior ranks at Brøndby IF, eventually making 109 senior appearances for the Danish giants.

France & Turkey: He enjoyed stints with Paris FC and Caykur Rizespor before returning to France to conclude his overseas chapter with En Avant Guingamp.

The acquisition comes as a major boost for Sekhukhune United as they prepare for a demanding second half of the Betway Premiership season. Club CEO Jonas Malatji expressed the club’s high expectations for the midfielder nicknamed “General”.

“We are delighted with this acquisition, as Lebo brings both incredible talent and invaluable international experience,” Malatji stated. “We look forward to his contribution as we look to finish strong this season.”

For Lebogang Phiri, the move represents a full-circle moment in a career that has seen him turn down high-profile domestic offers in the past to maintain his European dream.

“After years of sacrifice and dedication abroad, the doors to home have reopened,” Phiri said during his unveiling. “Sekhukhune, thank you. It’s time to reintroduce myself.”

With his international clearance processed, Phiri is expected to provide much-needed stability to the Babina Noko engine room. Fans will likely get their first look at the “General” when the domestic league resumes later this month, as Sekhukhune aims to climb the table and capitalise on the seasoned midfielder’s tactical intelligence.