South Africa - Kaizer Chiefs: Khama Billiat missing
Contract renewal talks between Kaizer Chiefs and Khama Billiat appear to have broken down.
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Khama Billiat was last seen at the Kaizer Chief training centre on 29 June. Nothing has been heard from him since, even though his contract expired on 30 June. "Billiat was last seen at the Kaizer Chiefs centre on 29 June and has not responded to any of the calls or messages sent to him by the club", the club said in a statement.
Is Billiat snubbing the new offer put to him? Or did he dislike being kept waiting so long for a proposal? Either way, the Chiefs hierarchy wanted Billiat to join the pre-season preparations with the club, who are currently in Mbombela under new coach Molefi Ntseki. "The team is currently on a training camp. Billiat, who should be with his team-mates, has not reported and is currently unreachable", the club said.
"How can you cut the salary of someone who doesn't have a contract?"
Since his transfer from Mamelodi Sundowns in 2018, Billiat has been a shadow of himself at Amakhosi. He has not managed to help the club win a single trophy in five seasons. At the Chiefs, he has made 125 appearances in all competitions, scoring 24 goals and providing 29 assists.
Despite output below expectations given his talent, the Chiefs reportedly offered the 33-year-old a new contract on the condition that he accept a pay cut, as he is one of the best-paid players not only at the Chiefs but in the PSL. "Khama is negotiating a new contract with the club. It is not a salary cut (that is holding up the talks). How can you cut the salary of someone who doesn't have a contract? Negotiations are ongoing, and we hope he will stay", explained the club's manager, Bobby Motaung.
Jim CEESAY