Farouk Khan Warns Chiefs Against Signing Lorch and Mbule

Farouk Khan Warns Chiefs Against Signing Lorch and Mbule

  • The former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach warns the club against signing Thembinkosi Lorch and Sipho Mbule, even on free transfers
  • Khan highlights that while both players are talented, their off-field conduct could negatively impact team morale and performance
  • The club is currently prioritising stability and team spirit as they aim to restore their former glory under a new direction

Former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Farouk Khan has voiced strong reservations about the club potentially signing Thembinkosi Lorch and Sipho Mbule from Mamelodi Sundowns. While many fans have been excited about the idea of the two talented players joining Naturena, Khan has urged caution, citing off-field concerns.

Ex-Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Farouk Khan raised concerns over signing Lorch and Mbule from Sundowns
Farouk Khan raises concerns over Kaizer Chiefs' potential move for Lorch and Mbule. Image: SABC Sport
Source: Facebook

Speaking during an appearance on the popular Soccer Beat Podcast, Khan did not mince his words:

“What’s important right now for Chiefs is to maintain the team spirit. I wouldn’t advise them to sign Mbule and Lorch even if they were free. The two players come with a lot of baggage. They’re good players, but what they do off the field is going to influence what happens on the field.”

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Chiefs fans split over dream signings

The buzz around Lorch and Mbule possibly donning the black and gold has gained traction among supporters, especially with Kaizer Chiefs desperate to return to their former glory. The Glamour Boys haven’t lifted silverware in nearly a decade, and quality reinforcements are high on the agenda.

Lorch has been in impressive form for Moroccan giants Wydad AC, while Mbule is with Sekhukhune United. But with coach Rulani Mokoena set to part ways with Wydad, Lorch is likely to also follow him out the door. Mbule, who has reportedly faced disciplinary issues at Sekhukhune, will have his contract expire in June, but Sundowns are believed to hold an option on him. Fans have speculated that a move to Naturena could revive their careers and give Chiefs the firepower they’ve been lacking. However, Khan’s comments have thrown a spanner in the works, suggesting that the risks may outweigh the potential rewards.

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Thembinkosi Lorch has been in fine form lately for Moroccan giants Wydad AC
Thembinkosi Lorch has impressed in recent outings for Moroccan giants Wydad AC. Image: SABC Sport
Source: Facebook

Restoring Naturena’s culture

Although Lorch appears to have turned over a new leaf at Wydad, he quickly encountered trouble after signing with Sundowns from Orlando Pirates when he went live on social media, seen with two unidentified women while seemingly under the influence.

Khan’s warning taps into a deeper issue — the importance of team culture at Kaizer Chiefs. The club is currently undergoing a period of rebuilding, and team harmony is viewed as essential for any future success.

Khune confirms: "I'm still available, retirement not on my mind"

Briefly News previously reported that veteran Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has shut down rumours of his retirement, confirming in an interview with eNCA’s Nicole Kente that he has made no formal announcement and remains fully committed to playing professional football. Now 36, Khune emphasised that he is still available for selection and remains dedicated to staying fit and performing at the highest level. The former Bafana Bafana number one said he has not lost his passion for the game and still plans to play well into his 40s. The interview sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some fans celebrating Khune’s enduring commitment, while others questioned why many South African players are reluctant to officially retire.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
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Ncube Harrison (Sports Editor) Harrison Ncube is a passionate sports journalist with six years of experience covering African and global sports. Harrison provides sharp analysis, engaging commentary, and compelling storytelling. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from the Zimbabwe Open University and previously worked at Sports Buzz (2018–2022), freelanced for Sports Journal (2023–2024), and contributed to Radio 54 African Panorama Live (2021–2023). For inquiries, reach him at ncube.harrison@briefly.co.za