Police aim to play it smart in strengthening their team

Police aim to play it smart in strengthening their team

The Star Online - Sport·2025-06-06 08:00

PETALING JAYA: Police may have a smaller budget but they aim to come out with guns blazing in the new Super League season.

They are preparing to assemble the best line-up to face a challenging season, which will include the presence of Brunei and the increased quota of 15 foreign players per squad.

The team’s chief executive officer ASP Mohd Hafiz Zainal Abidin (pic) said they would address fulfilling of the players quota wisely.

“The selection and quota depend on the coach’s wisdom based on actual needs on the field. I can say that throughout last season, we registered seven foreign players, but not all of them were used fully in matches,” said Hafiz.

“We are working hard to assemble the best line-up, and we know others are also preparing.

“We don’t want to fall behind. We are evaluating some new imports and will also retain a few existing local players.”

Only Jordanian midfielder Fadi Awad will stay on with the club, while Myanmar international Kyaw Min Oo has been offered an extension.

Japanese-Brazilian striker Bruno Suzuki has left the club to join Penang, while the likes of Nigerian winger Aremu Timothy and striker Ifedayo Olusegun are linked to Kelantan.

Regarding financial constraints last season (2024-2025), Hafiz admitted that Police faced a challenging journey but were still able to endure until the end of the season.

“We were somewhat financially affected last season. But we managed to get through it,” he said.

“It’s, however, not an obstacle to continue progressing and strengthening the team this season. The key is to use the available imports effectively. Not just bringing in many but not making an impact on the field. This is about squad management, not just numbers,” he added.

He clarified that the team would not fully utilise the 15-player import quota allowed, but the main focus was to maximise their potential.

Police are expected to maintain their current structure while making minimal improvements to ensure the team remain stable in the professional league.

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