Kaizer Chiefs Legend Doctor Khumalo Questions Glody Lilepo’s Expected Exit to Al Ahly Benghazi

Kaizer Chiefs legend and former Bafana Bafana star Doctor Khumalo has expressed surprise over the expected departure of winger Glody Lilepo, whose move to Libyan club Al Ahly Benghazi appears to be nearing completion. The talented attacker is reportedly set to leave Naturena after spending just a season and a half with the Soweto giants. News of the proposed transfer has sparked widespread discussion among supporters, especially considering the important role Lilepo played during his time at the club. His performances quickly made him one of the team’s most dependable attacking players, leading many fans to expect him to remain a central figure in the upcoming campaign. As the transfer edges closer to becoming official, Khumalo has shared his thoughts on a move that he believes raises several important questions.

Reports indicate that Kaizer Chiefs and Al Ahly Benghazi have already agreed on a transfer fee believed to be worth more than R17 million. The deal is understood to be at an advanced stage, with Glody Lilepo having already agreed to personal terms with the Libyan side. Only a successful medical examination reportedly remains before the transfer can be finalized. If completed, the move will bring an end to Lilepo’s relatively short but productive spell with Amakhosi. The transfer also highlights the growing financial strength of clubs across North Africa, which continue attracting some of the continent’s top talent.

Since arriving at Kaizer Chiefs, Lilepo established himself as one of the club’s most dangerous attacking weapons. The 28-year-old demonstrated his versatility by operating as both a winger and a forward, giving the coaching staff multiple tactical options in attack. During his time at Naturena, he scored nine goals in 33 appearances across all competitions, making valuable contributions in several important matches. His pace, direct running and ability to create scoring opportunities earned him praise from supporters and football analysts alike. Many believed he would become an even more influential player during the 2026/27 season following the club’s latest recruitment drive.

Speaking on SoccerZone, Doctor Khumalo admitted that the reported transfer had caught him by surprise. The Kaizer Chiefs legend questioned why the club would be prepared to part ways with a player who had consistently delivered strong performances. According to Khumalo, situations like this often suggest that there may be factors behind the scenes that are not publicly known. He acknowledged that if Lilepo wants to leave, the player may believe the move offers better opportunities for his career. At the same time, Khumalo suggested that the club’s willingness to approve the transfer could point to internal issues that remain private.

Khumalo explained that supporters are unlikely to understand every aspect of transfer decisions made by clubs. He argued that releasing a player of Lilepo’s quality naturally raises questions because of the positive impact the winger had during his time with Amakhosi. Khumalo stated that he had expected the attacker to become one of the team’s key players during the upcoming campaign, particularly after Kaizer Chiefs strengthened the squad with several new signings. In his view, Lilepo had already shown enough quality to become one of the club’s leading attacking threats. His comments reflect the surprise shared by many supporters who believed the Congolese international still had much more to offer.

The former Bafana Bafana star also emphasized Lilepo’s versatility as one of his greatest strengths. Modern football places significant value on players who can perform effectively in multiple attacking positions, and Lilepo demonstrated that ability throughout his time at Kaizer Chiefs. Whether deployed on the wing or through the middle as a striker, he consistently provided energy, movement and a goal-scoring threat. Losing a player with that level of flexibility can have a significant impact on a team’s attacking options. For that reason, Khumalo believes the decision deserves careful consideration.

Despite expressing concerns about the move, Khumalo ended his comments on a positive note by wishing Lilepo success in the next stage of his career. He acknowledged that the winger had fulfilled his responsibilities while wearing the famous Gold and Black jersey and deserved recognition for his contributions. Football careers often involve difficult decisions, with players balancing professional ambitions, financial opportunities and personal goals. Should the transfer to Al Ahly Benghazi be completed, Lilepo will begin a new challenge in Libyan football while carrying valuable experience gained in South Africa. His performances at Kaizer Chiefs have certainly enhanced his reputation across the continent.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs have returned to South Africa after completing their pre-season training camp in Spain, where the coaching staff continued preparing the squad for the new campaign. Attention now turns to the opening match of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, with Amakhosi set to face newly promoted Kruger United on 1 August. The club will hope to begin the season strongly despite the uncertainty surrounding Lilepo’s future. If the winger completes his expected move, Chiefs will need other attacking players to step forward and fill the void left by one of their most productive performers. As supporters await official confirmation of the transfer, the discussion surrounding Glody Lilepo’s departure continues to highlight both his value to Kaizer Chiefs and the difficult decisions clubs sometimes face in the modern transfer market.