Mamelodi Sundowns star Sipho Mbule’s behavior has left football pundit Junior Khanye deeply concerned about the midfielder’s future.
Sekhukhune United Release Sipho Mbule
Sipho Mbule, who was loaned to Sekhukhune United earlier this season, has been released by the club following allegations of misconduct. After making 18 appearances for the team, scoring twice and providing three assists, Sekhukhune United has decided to part ways with the 27-year-old player. This decision comes after Mbule’s ongoing disciplinary issues.
Mbule’s troubles date back to the 2022/2023 season when he was reprimanded by Sundowns for arriving at training under the influence of alcohol. This latest incident follows a history of disciplinary issues, leading to the decision by Sundowns to loan him out. According to Soccer Laduma, Mbule is unlikely to stay with the club beyond June, as the management evaluates their options for players whose contracts are expiring.
Khanye Expresses His Disappointment
Junior Khanye, who has always been vocal about his support for Mbule’s talent, expressed his disappointment over the midfielder’s behavior, calling it “painful” to watch. “It’s disappointing and it hurts because I love Sipho Mbule,” Khanye told Kick Off. “These days, football is not just about talent; there are other factors that are considered.”
Khanye highlighted that Sundowns’ decision to loan Mbule to Sekhukhune was a direct result of his behavior, not his footballing ability. “This boy is talented, why he is doing all this is shocking. The reason Sundowns sent him to Sekhukhune is because of such behaviour and not because of talent,” Khanye said.
He went on to emphasize the importance of reputation in football, noting that most players are the primary breadwinners for their families, and poor decisions can lead to long-term consequences. “The saddest part is he will not remain at the age he is currently in for long. He has already dented his reputation from Sundowns,” Khanye explained. “Back then, Rulani Mokwena was always on his side, but now it’s different.”
Khanye Warns of a Career at Risk
Khanye warned that Mbule’s behavior could ultimately jeopardize his professional future. “I don’t know how many chances he wants because he saw what happened to the likes of us,” Khanye reflected, referencing his own challenges in the game. “It took me about 10 years to get a deal again. Every time I gave clubs a call, the response would be: ‘Yes, you are talented, but unfortunately we cannot risk you.’”
Khanye emphasized that coaches and club directors talk to each other about players, and word spreads quickly within the football community. He expressed deep concern that no team would be willing to take a risk on a player who continues to undermine his career with off-field issues. “Sipho is killing his career, no team will risk with him. It will take God and his ancestors to save his career, not a human being. He might not play professionally again,” Khanye warned. “I see him spending at least six months without a team.”
Mbule’s Future Remains Uncertain
As the situation unfolds, it’s unclear what lies ahead for Sipho Mbule. His disciplinary issues have raised serious questions about his future in professional football, and unless he makes drastic changes in his behavior, it could be the end of his top-flight career.
