Latest news with #MalaysianSuperLeague
The Star
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Cklamovski offers solid defence against criticism over pullout from Nations Cup
PETALING JAYA: National coach Peter Cklamovski has defended Malaysia's decision to withdraw from the CAFA Nations Cup, calling it a calculated move made in the best interests of the national team. And he assured fans that the Harimau Malaya will play friendlies in September, which would contribute points to their FIFA ranking. However, the decision to pull out has sparked criticism among some fans and stakeholders, with questions raised about Malaysia's ambition. But Cklamovski insists the decision was neither rash nor a sign of weakness. 'I understand the disappointment from some quarters of Malaysian football. But this decision was made based on what's best for the national team,' said the Australian. 'As we assessed the logistics and overall planning, it became increasingly clear that participation wasn't feasible at this time. And we factored in every player, whether locally or abroad.' The tournament, hosted by Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, was seen as a valuable test against higher-ranked opponents. Yet, Cklamovski believes the timing simply didn't align with the team's long-term objectives. 'I'd like to see this as an ambitious move. We want to take on serious challenges, but they must come at the right time. 'Our focus now is on the October and November third-round 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, where nine points are up for grabs. ''That's our main priority.' He added that the team's plans for September - likely involving friendly matches - will be announced soon and should excite fans. Despite the current international lull, Cklamovski said preparations have not stopped. With the Malaysian Super League set to begin soon, Cklamovski is already watching pre-season matches and has commended the Malaysian Football League (MFL) for their advanced planning. 'Credit to the MFL for mapping out the season early. It gives structure and clarity not only to clubs and players, but also to us at the national level. That kind of organisation is important for long-term success.' Cklamovski sent a clear message to players across the country, whether in the national fold or on the fringes, that their performances are being closely monitored. 'Players who have been in camp with me know the level of professionalism expected. ''But for those who haven't, know that I'm watching. If you want to wear the Malaysia jersey, you have to earn it through consistent performances in training and matches.' He also reiterated that selection will be based on merit, not reputation or geography. 'I don't care if a player is in the Super League, abroad, or in another domestic competition. I'll select the best squad to win matches for Malaysia.' On speculation that more mixed heritage players could be drafted into the national team, Cklamovski clarified that while the coaching staff continue to scout globally, there is no dedicated programme or 'phase two' focused solely on that. 'We've identified players with Malaysian heritage playing abroad and we're tracking them, but there's no formal initiative beyond that. ''Some of the talk is more online chatter than official planning.'
The Star
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Ramadhan relishes test against top players in Super League
Getting his kicks: Brunei's hotshot Ramadhan Sananta (left) has already made waves in South-East Asia. PETALING JAYA: Brunei's Indonesian young attacking hotshot Ramadhan Sananta is ready to take on a new footballing frontier and has revealed why he decided to test himself in the Malaysian Super League. The 22-year-old striker said that the presence of top-quality players in the league, particularly at clubs like Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Selangor, was a major reason in his decision to join the team coached by Englishman Jamie McAllister. This marks Ramadhan's first foray into Malaysian football and he is not just here to observe but to make an impact. 'My motivation to come here is because I know the level of competition in the Malaysian League is high,' said Ramadhan, who joined the Borneo club from Indonesia's Persis Solo. 'The teams in the league have quality, good tactics and technique, and I'm still young. ''I need to challenge myself outside of Indonesia and take this opportunity to grow.' Ramadhan shared that names like winger Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi –Malaysia's golden boy – and his former teammate Moussa Sidibe, now dazzling on the flanks for JDT, stood out as players he is excited to face. 'I can't wait to meet my former teammate Moussa again at JDT. And Arif Aiman, he's always talked about. There are so many quality players in this league,' he added with a smile. A prolific striker known for his sharp instincts and cool finishing, Ramadhan has already made waves in South-East Asia. He was instrumental in Indonesia's U-23 squad clinching gold at the 2023 SEA Games, netting twice in a thrilling 5-2 final win over Thailand. His rise continued on the senior stage, scoring in Indonesia's 3-0 win over Vietnam during the second round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Now, at Brunei, he is expected to be a key figure in their attacking unit as they prepare to make a serious push in the Malaysian Super League. With kick-off set for August, Ramadhan is ready to test himself against some of the region's biggest names and possibly become one himself in Malaysia. 'I want to try something new and help this club succeed. I believe I can grow here and I'm excited to start this new chapter.'
The Star
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Selangor find their new playmaker in Clough after Orozco's exit
PETALING JAYA: Selangor are set to have a new chief playmaker at their disposal and he comes from England. Zach Clough (pic) is the man for the job and the news was broken by their former player and Australian football pundit Robbie Cornthwaite. 'Adelaide United midfielder Zach Clough has signed for Malaysian Super League giants Selangor,' he tweeted yesterday. The move will whet the appetite of Selangor fans, especially after the departure of Venezuelan playmaker Yohandry Orozco during the off-season. Clough brings with him a wealth of experience, creativity, and technical flair that Selangor hope will elevate their midfield to new heights. The 30-year-old playmaker is well known for his intelligence on the ball, sharp passing range, and an eye for goal, all attributes that have made him a standout in the English Football League and Australia's top tier. Having started his career at Bolton Wanderers, Clough quickly made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young talents in English football. He scored 21 goals in 68 appearances for Bolton and also had stints with Nottingham Forest and Wigan Athletic. Injuries may have disrupted parts of his career but at his best, Clough remains a dynamic attacking midfielder with an instinctive ability to unlock defences. At Adelaide United, Clough found his rhythm again, becoming a central figure in their attacking set-up. His vision and control in tight spaces proved vital for the Reds and his ability to drop deep and dictate play often allowed others around him to flourish. Last season in the A-League, he played 27 matches, scoring seven and making nine assists. Selangor's move for Clough signals their intent to challenge for silverware and build on the steady progress they made under coach Katsuhito Kinoshi. Clough is expected to slot into an advanced midfield role, potentially just behind the striker, where his ability to thread through passes and take on defenders could provide Selangor with the attacking edge they need. He could also be deployed as a winger. Fans of the Red Giants will be eager to see how quickly Clough adapts to the tempo and physicality of Malaysian football. However, given his technical style and prior experience adjusting to different leagues, there is confidence that he will make an immediate impact.
The Star
13-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
RM1mil relief for KLFA but no rash spending, says president
PETALING JAYA: For a team that have previously struggled with financial issues, receiving a windfall is certainly a welcome relief, especially with the new Super League season set to begin on Aug 8. The Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) were handed an unexpected boost when Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced an RM1mil allocation during their Golden Jubilee celebration on Saturday. However, KLFA president Syed Yazid Syed Omar is keeping his excitement in check, stressing that any decision on how the funds will be used must be carefully discussed with the association's executive committee, with the main priority being the development of Kuala Lumpur football. 'We never asked for it, but the Prime Minister made the announcement himself. I didn't expect it at all. It's a substantial amount, and we are very grateful,' said Yazid. 'KLFA need to discuss on how to use the money thoroughly. What matters most is ensuring that KLFA are well managed. As for KL City's long-standing salary arrears and debts, Yazid said most of the outstanding payments have been resolved, although he declined to reveal the exact amount still owed. This season, KL City have also made bold moves in the transfer market by signing several high-profile players, including Manuel Hidalgo, Syamer Kutty Abba and Safawi Rasid. Yazid expressed his gratitude that the club's finances are now in a more stable position, largely due to the support of patron Fahmi Fadzil. With a strengthened squad, he is aiming for a top-two finish in the Malaysian Super League and a spot in the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL2). 'For KL City, funding and sponsorship have been flowing in. I would like to thank our patron for being instrumental in helping us secure the necessary support. 'We are financially stable now. Salaries are up to date under the new management and everything is running smoothly. Last season, despite facing severe financial difficulties, KL City still managed to finish sixth in the Super League and reached the quarter-finals of the Malaysian Cup.
The Star
10-07-2025
- Sport
- The Star
Melaka have the right strategy to stay in the top league
PETALING JAYA: Melaka, fresh from their A1 Semi-Pro League triumph last season, are entering the Malaysian Super League with a clear strategy – retain the winning formula, strengthen it with experience and build smartly. Coach K. Devan, a seasoned figure in Malaysian football, is confident that continuity and calculated reinforcements will give his side the edge in their debut season at the top flight. 'We've kept our core and added some experienced players into the squad,' said Devan. 'We're not overhauling. The chemistry is there and we want to build on it.' One of the standout signings is veteran defender centreback Irfan Zakaria, who brings a wealth of top-flight and international experience to a young and energetic squad. 'Irfan is the most experienced one we've brought in. His leadership and composure will be crucial, especially in tight matches.' Another key addition is Shahrel Fikri Md Fauzi, a versatile forward expected to bolster Melaka's attacking options. While some of the new faces are still adjusting to the intensity of top-tier football, Devan remains patient and focused. They have also added centreback R. Aroon Kumar and defensive midfielder Faiz Mazlan into the fold. 'Midfielder Faiz came from the A1 Semi-Pro league. It will take him some time but he has the right attitude. We're giving him time to adapt and grow.' Melaka are also actively working on signing foreign reinforcements but are in no rush to finalise deals, with the Super League season already underway. 'We'll bring in a few foreigners while the preseason is ongoing. The key is to find the right fit, not just names,' Devan explained. They have kept players like winger G. Durrkeswaran, striker Azim Rahim, Ghanaian attacker Fusseini Issah and midfielder Nasir Basharuddin.
