Former Bafana Bafana international Lebogang Phiri has opened up about his decision to sign with Sekhukhune United after returning to South Africa following a 13-year stint in Europe.
Phiri joined the Limpopo-based outfit during the 2026 January transfer window as a free agent. The 31-year-old midfielder had been without a club since July 2025, after leaving French side Guingamp FC, whom he had joined from Caykur Rizespor in February 2024.
Following his departure from France, the player was heavily linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs. However, the deal with the Soweto giants did not materialise.
Phiri came forward to reveal that he and his representatives had discussed matters with Chiefs before the club departed for its pre-season training camp in the Netherlands. He made this disclosure while attending the Engen Knockout Challenge at Marks Park in Emmarentia in July last year.
“We had small talks with them, but I think it was the time they were going for a pre-season training camp abroad [in the Netherlands],” said Phiri when he was asked about his potential move to the Glamour Boys. “So, those [the negotiations] were stalled a bit. Hopefully, in the upcoming days, we will come up with something; if not, we will respect everybody who shows interest in me, whether it is locally or abroad.”
Since his arrival at Sekhukhune, the experienced central midfielder has participated in five games across all competitions.
THE REASON WHY LEBOGANG PHIRI TOOK SEKHUKHUNE UNITED’S OFFER
Ultimately, it was the persistence and “family” atmosphere at Babina Noko that convinced Phiri to head to the Limpopo side rather than Naturena.
“In all honesty, what stood out was how much they proved they truly valued my services. As a player, you always have an idea of where you want to go, but you ultimately want to be where you are genuinely welcomed. I felt that this was ‘home’ from day one,” Phiri revealed on the sidelines of the Nedbank Cup quarter-final draw on Monday.
“I embraced the opportunity to become a member of Babina Noko, and I am incredibly proud and happy to be here.”
LEBOGANG PHIRI ON THE REUNION WITH COACH ERIC TINKLER
The move also marks a significant reunion with head coach Eric Tinkler, who has known the midfielder since the start of his professional journey. While the familiarity is a plus, Phiri admits it comes with added pressure.
“Of course, it has its tolls because he [coach Eric Tinkler] has known me from a very young age, so he expects so much from me. The player I was when he first met me and the player I have become today are quite different,” he added.
“I have matured in so many aspects of the game. Of course, coming back home to a football style I last played in 2012 is going to be tough, but coach Eric has given me the opportunity to be part of the squad and the team that goes to games from day one. So, he believes and trusts in me. All I have to do is repay him by giving him good performances.”
Babina Noko’s next league fixture will be against the Betway Premiership defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday, 1 March. The game will be played at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Sekhukhune will look to cement their third-place spot as they have accumulated 32 points from 18 matches so far, while Masandawana aim to pull clear at the summit. The Brazilians currently sit joint-top of the table with 38 points, level with Orlando Pirates after 17 outings.
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