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Itu Khune’s views on Christian Saile amidst exit talks

Amidst ongoing speculation about Christian Saile’s future at Kaizer Chiefs, club legend Itumeleng Khune has shared his thoughts on the strengths and potential of the attacker.

Saile has been linked with a move away from Chiefs during the current January transfer window, with Chippa United reportedly leading the pursuit to sign the Congolese striker on loan. His former club, Nchanga Rangers, are also said to be interested in bringing him back to Zambia.

The 25-year-old has been donning the famous Black and Gold jersey of Amakhosi for two years, having joined the Soweto giants in January 2023 on a three-and-a-half-year contract from Rangers.

He arrived at Naturena with high expectations after leaving the Zambian league, where he scored seven goals a few games into the 2022/23 season. Before that, he was in red hot form as he found the back of the net 19 times to help Nchanga gain promotion to the Zambian top flight.

However, his impact at The Glamour Boys has fallen short of expectations. In 57 appearances across all competitions for the club, he has managed only seven goals and four assists, often deployed as a wide player.

Christian Saile in action for Kaizer Chiefs, where he played with Itumeleng Khune
Christian Saile. Picture courtesy of Vino Snap

This season, under the guidance of coach Nasreddine Nabi, Saile has struggled to find his footing. In six appearances, he is yet to register a goal or an assist.

ITUMELENG KHUNE ON SAILE AMIDST EXIT SPECULATION

Khune, who played with Saile for two seasons at Chiefs believes the attacker possesses the ability to be a nightmare to defenders with his pace and skill. The former Bafana Bafana international highlighed the forward’s strength in running at defenders.

“Saile’s strength is to run at defenders. But he hasn’t shown that since coach Nabi took over,” said Khune on SoccerZone.

“Remember when he came, he used to bang in goals. He used to take on defenders. He used to create [goal-scoring opportunities] coming from the right-hand side as a left-footed player.

“But I think Chippa will make use of him [if they do sign Saile], but with Kaizer Chiefs, I doubt it…,” added Khune.

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