Former Pahang striker Saravanan glad to be part of Kelantan's revamp
PETALING JAYA: Kelantan are looking to become a Super League side worth watching again as they prepare for a fresh start next month following a major overhaul.
After a dismal 2024-2025 season where they finished bottom of the 13-team table, the east coast side are rebuilding with clear intent, targeting a mid-table finish and a new identity to match their ambition.
Now rebranded as the Real Warriors and backed by former chairman Tan Sri Annuar Musa, Kelantan, the team have made several key appointments, including hiring of the experienced coach E. Elavarasan.
Elavarasan will be supported by former Sarawak midfield general Muamer Salibasic.
The club have secured four names from Malaysia Cup runners-up Pahang - winger T. Saravanan (goal-scorer in the final), left-back Azwan Aripin, goalkeeper Azfar Arif, and midfielder Syaahir Saiful Nizam.
Saravanan is feeling optimistic about the journey ahead.
'New surroundings again after my move from Pahang, and before that Kuala Lumpur,' said the 24-year-old winger from Kapar.
'It was a good experience with Pahang, but I respect their decision to withdraw from the Super League this season.
'When Kelantan called up, I felt playing outside the Klang Valley again would help me grow as a player,' added Saravanan, who began his career with Selangor.
He was also impressed with the approach of his new coaches.
'Coaches Elavarasan and Salibasic have brought a balanced style. On the pitch, it's about possession and using our technique intelligently. Off it, there's a strong emphasis on strength training – not just stamina, but overall physicality.'
'Kota Baru has been great so far. I'm excited and can't wait for the season to begin.'
Kelantan have also brought in Terengganu winger Syafik Ismail and are reportedly monitoring Pahang playmaker Nor Azam Azih.
To further strengthen their squad, Kelantan are exploring loan deals, particularly from Klang Valley side Kuala Lumpur, with striker Haqimi Azim Rosli and left-back Syazwan Andik among the names on their radar.
On the foreign front, the club are said to be in talks with prolific Nigerian striker Ifedayo Olusegun, once the league's most feared forward and Golden Boot winner in 2020 and 2021 during his Selangor days.
Despite being 34, Olusegun remains one of the most lethal strikers in Malaysian football.
They are also eyeing Nigerian winger Prince Aggreh and Myanmar's Hein Htet Aung, while rumours suggest a European goalkeeper could soon be added to the mix.
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