Report: Key player set to return to …..

The Malaysia Super League, which typically began between January and March, has now adopted a format spanning two calendar years, similar to major European competitions this season. The commencement of the 2024-25 season last weekend should have been met with enthusiasm and anticipation due to the later start. However, the return of the MSL was overshadowed by recent violence targeting several notable players.

Over the past week, Malaysian football has been shaken by three separate incidents. It started with Akhyar Rashid, currently on loan at Terengganu from Johor Darul Ta’zim, being injured in a robbery outside his home. Following this, Malaysia international Faisal Abdul Halim was subjected to a horrific acid attack at a shopping mall, leaving him initially in critical condition with severe burns. Meanwhile, JDT veteran Safiq Rahim escaped unharmed when his car was targeted by assailants.

While authorities stated these attacks were unrelated, the unusual violence against sports figures caused widespread concern. Selangor, Faisal’s club, withdrew from last Friday’s Charity Cup match with JDT due to safety fears, despite assurances from the authorities.

Although interstate rivalries in Malaysian football can be intense, such extreme incidents are rare. JDT expressed disappointment over Selangor’s withdrawal, especially since they had taken measures to ensure safety.

The MSL season began without its traditional opener, with JDT awarded a 3-0 win due to Selangor’s absence. Terengganu had a promising start, winning 3-1 against Perak, while other matches ended with Kedah Darul Aman and Sri Pahang securing 1-0 victories over PDRM and Kelantan Darul Naim, respectively.

Looking ahead, Selangor’s next match against Kedah on May 18 remains uncertain. Despite differing opinions among fans, Selangor has the right to prioritize the well-being of their club, especially given recent events.

Violence has no place in sports, and while these incidents may have been coincidental, they cast a shadow over what should have been an exciting start to the new MSL season.