PETALING JAYA: Good or bad, leftback Afzal Akbar (pic), is staying put in Kelantan.
After a harrowing experience at home last year, one would think that the 25-year-old will move on but he has decided to play for Kelantan United, now rebranded to Kelantan Darul Naim (KDN), in this year’s Super League.
Last season, he cancelled his contract with Kelantan when they failed to pay his wages.
Several clubs including 2021 Malaysia Cup champions Kuala Lumpur offered him a place, but he decided to sign with KDN.
“I’ve some unfinished business in Kelantan. Last year, I was only here for half a season. I feel that I owe the fans. The fans are supportive here and are also the biggest motivation for the team. That is why I decided to join KDN,” he said.
“Last season, was a tough one for me as a player. I’ve learnt that the club and players need a clear disclosure from the management.
“With KDN, disclosure-wise, it is clear. Management and players, there is no gap. We can always refer to them and we get answers, nothing is left hanging.
“Welfare-wise, they are open. Last season, we were kept in the dark. Now, that is not the case at all with KDN.”
Afzal, who made his name with UiTM in 2021 and 2022, is expected to be the team’s first-choice leftback but he will have competition too in the form of Ghaffar Abdul Rahman.
“The competition in my place is healthy. The biggest motivation is to always give my best in training.”
Afzal added that it had been good train under former Malaysian international Reezal Zambry Yahya, who has been with the club since last year.
“Coach Reezal wants his boys to always compete in training. He always demands the best but is quite understanding.”
