Former Kaizer Chiefs Star Appreciates Itumeleng Khune After Kind Gesture

Former Kaizer Chiefs Star Appreciates Itumeleng Khune After Kind Gesture

  • Kgaogelo Sekgota has come out to show his appreciation to Itumeleng Khune after his kind gesture towards him while in rehab
  • The former Kaizer Chiefs winger was in the rehabilitation centre for four months before being released
  • Sekgota's show of gratitude to his former teammates sparked different reactions from social media users online

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Kgaogelo Sekgota expressed his gratitude to several Premier Soccer League players who supported him during his rehabilitation.

Kgaogelo Sekgota, SL Benfica, Vitoria FC, Lisbon, Portugal.
Kgaogelo Sekgota in action during the Liga NOS match between SL Benfica and Vitoria FC at Estadio da Luz on April 14, 2019 in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo: Gualter Fatia
Source: Getty Images

The South African winger, who recently completed a four-month program at the Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre near Polokwane, said that Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune, Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ricardo Goss, and Jaisen Clifford all reached out to offer encouragement during his recovery in rehab alongside Lerato Chabangu.

Sekgota, who is set to spend the 2025/26 season on loan at Tubatse United from Upington City, said that the trio’s support meant a lot to him as he worked through one of the toughest periods of his life. He credited their kindness and concern for helping him stay focused on his rehabilitation and determined to return to football stronger than before.

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Sekgota appreciates Khune, ex-teammates

Sekgota has opened up about the crucial support he received from Khune and two other PSL players during his rehabilitation journey.

He confirmed that Khune played a particularly significant role, consistently checking in and ensuring he had everything he needed while in rehab.

According to Sekgota, the Kaizer Chiefs legend provided food, essentials, and emotional support throughout his recovery process, something he describes as “fatherly.” He expressed deep gratitude for Khune’s unwavering care, saying it made a major difference during one of the most difficult periods of his life.

Sekgota also extended his appreciation to the Mohlala family, especially Tubatse United Chairman Martin Mohlala, for showing faith in him and giving him a second chance. He credited Mohlala for helping him transition out of rehab and reignite his football career.

Kaizer Chiefs, Kgaogelo Sekgota.
Former Kaizer Chiefs star Kgaogelo Sekgota reflects on his time at a rehabilitation centre following a battle with substance abuse. Photo: sekgota_26
Source: Instagram

The winger and his Tubatse United teammates will now aim to fight for promotion as the Limpopo ABC Motsepe League kicks off this weekend.

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Here is what fans are saying about Sekgota's gratitude to Khune and his former teammates.

Malerothe Van Vuurn said:

"He was having depression for not playing professional football any more Not about substances."

Prince Mushandana wrote:

"Khune he's an idol following the footsteps of the legendary Doc& Khosi Nation ♥️✌️."

Dark_En_Lovely2 reacted:

"Never be afraid to start over🫶🫶 As long as he's alive."

just_carol8 shared:

"Football didn't do anything to him. He had a substance abuse problem and just came out of rehab, fortunately. He just needs to take himself serious, then he can work on getting on his feet again. I still believe in him."

Bazooka9 added:

"Football is not cruel. Life is cruel to those who lack discipline, lack focus, do not put in any effort in what they do and have a desire to get to the top and stay on top. I hope he rediscovers his hunger."

Ex-Bafana star hopes to start afresh

Briefly News also reported that former Bafana Bafana and PSL star Lerato Chabangu was also in rehab due to drug addiction.

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The former South African international is working on coming back to the game and becoming a football manager after his rehabilitation.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@sportsbrief.com.