Staying focused: Kuala Lumpur skipper Paulo Josue warming up during a training session. — Kuala Lumpur FC
KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur players have not been paid their salaries – some reportedly for as much as four months – and they are running out of patience.
Now, they are looking to “Mr Kuala Lumpur” Paulo Josue to address the matter, even as they prepare for their Malaysia Cup semi-final second-leg against Terengganu on Thursday.
Josue, the team captain, said the salary issue is having an effect, especially when they lost 0-2 to Police on Friday.
“It’s a bit tough to answer questions about our performance and preparation. We are having some financial issues in the club, which is hampering our performance,” said the 34-year-old.
The midfielder, who has been playing for them since 2017, said the team are committed to beating Terengganu at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak on Thursday.
They are down 1-2 from the first leg and Josue said the team were eager to come back and get into their second final of the year. They qualified for the FA Cup final, losing to Johor Darul Ta’zim 0-2 at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri.
“We understand that the club do not want to be in such a position but they always make promises they cannot keep. I do not want to complain but we are upset because they give us some date but when the date comes, the promise is not fulfilled. We are disappointed.
“We just want honest answers from the management. But we still have hope and trust. We believe they can solve it. We do not want to take legal action, like going to the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) or FIFA.
“Just be honest so that we can sort out our finances. As professionals, whether coaches or players, we have to put aside any issues and focus on the games.
“But we are spending energy and focus on the salary issue, which is quite tough.
“I think everyone could see that our fighting spirit was not there in the last game.
“Despite all the problems, the team still have a chance to write a nice story for the club.
“We will try our best to figure out how we can go out there and beat Terengganu. The game is open and we still have a chance.”
Despite the financial issues, Josue said his season so far has been good and he continues to relish his role as the team’s leader.
“I just want to work and play football. I just give everything I have to the team. As captain, I try to show inspiration, and be a good example and be there for my mates.
“The season has been nice despite the financial situation. I had call-ups to Malaysia too. I am proud of it.”
