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New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Selangor FC were not scammed, just unlucky, says club official
KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor FC's underperforming imports during the 2024-25 M-League season have triggered accusations from fans that the club had fallen victim to scammers. However, technical committee chairman Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar has dismissed the claims, insisting the Red Giants were simply "unlucky". "We didn't get scammed, but we were unlucky. Other clubs have gone through the same thing. The players had good profiles, but when they came here, they failed to live up to expectations," he said. "We are now targeting younger foreign signings for the new season." Looking ahead to the 2025-26 campaign, Selangor are planning a major squad overhaul, having released a long list of local and foreign players, along with several members of the coaching staff, following the end of the league last month. Confirmed departures include Ronnie Fernandez, Ali Olwan, captain Safuwan Baharudin, Khairulazhan Khalid and Khuzaimie Piee. "We believe these players can't take Selangor any further. "We failed to win any major cups or make an impact in the Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2) last season. "It's time for a big change, especially with the foreigners. We need to find better imports," said Shahril. "We're looking for new foreign players, but we won't be filling the full quota of 15. That's for sure, as we need to assess our financial capabilities." Shahril admitted the upcoming season will be a monumental challenge. Besides the Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup, the Red Giants will also play in the ACL2 and the Asean Club Championship (ACC). Despite a congested fixture list, Selangor will not be appealing to the Malaysian Football League (MFL) for additional player registrations, with the current cap set at 34. "The number of players remains unchanged, so we just have to find better-quality players," he said. "This time, we're hoping luck is on our side. "Last season, we were unfortunate with so many injuries. I hope we can overcome that moving forward," Shahril added. Selangor finished runners-up in both the Super League and FA Cup, losing out to Johor Darul Ta'zim on both occasions last season. They crashed out in the Malaysia Cup round of 16 and failed to progress beyond the ACL2 group stage.
New Straits Times
25-05-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Selangor welcome 'extra foreign firepower' for new season
KUALA LUMPUR: With Selangor fighting on three fronts next season, they will need a lot of firepower — especially from overseas. So, the Malaysian Football League's decision to increase the foreign player quota from 12 to 15 is welcomed by the Red Giants. It is going to be taxing for Selangor — competing in the M-League, Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2) and Asean Club Championship (ACC). Selangor technical committee chairman Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar sees the increased foreign quota for the new M-League season as timely. "Last season, we registered 12 imports. This time, we are allowed 15, which is a good option to have, especially when you consider the increase in match-day slots," said Shahril. "We welcome this flexibility. But it doesn't mean we'll automatically sign all 15. We need to consider our budget, and more importantly, the quality of players available." Shahril believed this move will benefit clubs like Selangor and Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT), given their continental commitments. However, he acknowledged that not every team are in a position to fully utilise the new quota. "If a team can afford it and have the depth, go ahead. But if not, there's no pressure to hit that number. "As for us, we're still evaluating. It might stay at 12, or it might change depending on what the team need," he said. Shahril admitted that the 2025-2026 campaign will be hectic for Selangor, who earned their ACC spot as Super League runners-up. "It's going to be a packed year for us, the league, ACL2, and now the Asean Club Championship. But we are looking forward to this. "We're excited to compete at the regional level and hopefully make the country proud. Both Selangor and JDT will carry this responsibility," he added.
Straits Times
17-05-2025
- Sport
- Straits Times
Wounded Sharjah up for revenge to ‘get the trophy they deserve' in ACL2
(From left to right): Sharjah FC's Cho Yu-min, Caio Lucas, Adel Taarabt and Luanzinho Adel Taarabt in action during the team's training session ahead of the ACL2 final against Lion City Sailors. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO Wounded Sharjah up for revenge to 'get the trophy they deserve' in ACL2 SINGAPORE – After losing the United Arab Emirates President's Cup final and ceding the UAE Pro League to Shabab Al-Ahli in a winless run of five games, Sharjah FC's season looked like it was going pear-shaped after a promising start. Wounded they may be, but the Emirati club could be dangerous as they attempt to salvage their campaign with their first piece of continental silverware when they face hosts Lion City Sailors in the Asian Champions League 2 final at Bishan Stadium on May 18. At the pre-match press conference on May 17, Sharjah coach Cosmin Olaroiu said: 'We always learn from every game, and we knew this would be a very tough season for us and we are going to struggle a lot. 'By the work of these fantastic players, we are in the ACL 2 final, which is a big achievement for the club. Now we have the last battle, our last final, and we have to focus. 'We didn't deserve to lose the President's Cup final, but now it's time to take revenge and get the trophy the players deserve. We come here with the idea to take the trophy, and try not to disappoint our fans and families. We should be able to make one more effort, it doesn't matter how much it will cost us, to try to win this game.' Before a ball had been kicked, the visitors went on the offensive as early as April. They had asked organisers for 'the allocation of a suitable stadium worthy of the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) Champions League 2 final', citing concerns over the Jalan Besar Stadium's 6,000 capacity and artificial pitch – the facility was used for the tournament's earlier rounds. The final was eventually moved to Bishan Stadium, which underwent upgrades to spruce up the natural turf, increase the capacity from around 3,000 to 10,000, and improve the lighting. Sharjah forward Caio Lucas said: 'Sometimes it's hard to play on an artificial pitch, that's why we complained about that.' Olaroiu added: 'My point of view is that the final should be in a much proper stadium with a bigger capacity, because football is for the fans. Of course, all the other things like the quality of the pitch should have maximum standards, because it's a final and it is publicity for football in Asia. 'They have made big efforts to fix these problems, and now we are here... our target is to win. We have to follow what we have to do and forget about all the other things.' The team arrived in Singapore on May 14 and have a full complement of players to pick from, including a clutch of Brazil-born Emiratis such as full-back Marcus Meloni and attackers Luanzinho and Lucas. Despite their recent domestic woes, they have shown their fighting spirit in the second-tier Asian club competition, winning in the last 16 and quarter-finals on penalties – goalkeeper Adel Al-Hosani made four saves in the shoot-out in total – and coming from behind to beat Al Taawoun in the semi-finals. Olaroiu complimented the Sailors for being 'well-organised and well-prepared, with very good quality in front'. Sharjah coach Cosmin Olaroiu complimented the Sailors for being 'well-organised and well-prepared, with very good quality in front'. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO The 55-year-old Romanian added: 'They know how to use the spaces in transition. We have to take them seriously and with a lot of professionalism. Tomorrow, the team that find a way to have more self-control, play with maximum potential and peak in the final will win, and we hope it will be us.' The Sharjah players will also be looking to give Olaroiu the perfect sendoff, as the coach will take over the UAE national team from their next World Cup qualifier against Uzbekistan in Abu Dhabi on June 5. Caio said: 'We try our best in every game to listen to what coach tells us and win each match. It will be a pleasure for us to give him this win and trophy.' David Lee is senior sports correspondent at The Straits Times focusing on aquatics, badminton, basketball, cue sports, football and table tennis. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
New Straits Times
16-05-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Chilean Fernandez leaving Red Giants
KUALA LUMPUR: Chilean Ronnie Fernandez is leaving Selangor after just one season. But he won't be going home empty-handed — there's a winner medal in his luggage. The striker helped Selangor win the MFL Challenge Cup — their first silverware in 10 years, Fernandez posted on Instagram yesterday: "Thank you Selangor for allowing me to be part of your story. Good luck." The 34-year-old joined the Red Giants in January from Bolivian club, Bolivar, and quickly established himself as a key player. He made 33 appearances in all competitions for Selangor, including the Asian Champions League 2, scoring 12 goals and providing three assists. Fernandez joined a growing list of notable names leaving Selangor, including captain Safuwan Baharudin, Yohandry Orozco, Nikola Jambor and Ali Olwan.
New Straits Times
24-04-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
Is Sabah FC in turmoil?
KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah FC have dismissed talk of financial turmoil amid the Malaysian Football League (MFL) confirming the Rhinos as one of four Super League sides to secure an AFC Club Licence for the 2025-2026 Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2). "Sabah always fulfil their obligations and are aware of them, unlike some other clubs. "We're one of four to receive the AFC licence, so I don't think there's any problem. Not saying we're perfect, but the management knows what needs to be done, and the players are always taken care of," said Sabah technical director Scott Ollerenshaw. However, the East Malaysian club's off-field issue amid the exits of key players and speculation about further departures, including Stuart Wilkin, Dominic Tan, Saddil Ramdani, Joao Pedro and Telmo Castanheira, hang over them like a cloud. "Pedro had an opportunity in Vietnam. It was a football decision. "Saddil? It's not official. He's been here five years, and it's normal for players to want a new challenge. I love him, but if he's ready to move on, maybe it's time. "On Stuart and Dominic, those are only rumours. We'll have to wait and see," said Ollerenshaw. Midfielder Castanheira's Facebook post sparked speculation after he alluded to problems at the club. "Amazing season with this group of players who, despite so many problems, never stopped. Thanks to the fans for always supporting me. Regarding the club's difficult situation, I hope they resolve it quickly and fulfil their obligations," wrote Castanheira. Ollerenshaw confirmed that the management is aware of their obligations, and are committed to smart planning and financial discipline for the new season. Meanwhile Sabah team manager Rafie Robert announced his departure on Facebook, confirming April 20 as his last day with the club. "Thank you Sabah. April 20 was my last day as team manager. Congratulations to the players and coaches for another top-three finish. Also, thank you to the fans for always supporting us. I appreciate the trust given to me this season. It was a valuable experience," posted Rafie. Sabah wrapped up the Super League season in third place for the third year running, behind champions JDT and Selangor.
