Malaysian national team manager disappointed with CAS ruling on 7 naturalized players

The Malaysian national team leader expressed disappointment following the CAS ruling concerning 7 naturalized players, stating that the penalty remains too severe and not truly proportionate.

Executive Director of the Malaysian national team, Rob Friend expressed disappointment regarding the latest CAS ruling concerning FAM's appeal along with the 7 players. According to Friend, although CAS decided to partially reduce the penalty, Malaysia still believes the arguments presented earlier provided sufficient grounds for a different ruling.

In the official statement, the Malaysian football leader stated: “We are disappointed with CAS's overall decision, despite the penalty reduction. Based on the arguments presented, we believe there remains solid grounds for a different ruling. The players have demonstrated professionalism and integrity throughout this process.”

Additionally, Friend believes the penalty imposed on the players remains too heavy and lacks balance compared to similar past cases. “From our perspective, the penalty imposed on the players is still excessive and somewhat disproportionate when compared to some previous cases with similar circumstances, where a comprehensive suspension from football activities was not applied,” he added.

This CEO also acknowledged that the recent period has been a very difficult time for the players as well as their respective clubs. However, the involved parties continue to strongly support the players even though they are not directly involved in the core issue of the case. “This is a very difficult time for the players and their clubs. Although not directly related to the initial issue, they have consistently received support and companionship throughout this process,” Friend shared.

Regarding the next steps, Rob Friend affirmed that Malaysian football's current priority is to unite with the players, while focusing on the important upcoming match against the Vietnam national football team at the end of March. “Our responsibility now is to continue standing alongside the players, focus on the match against Vietnam, and ensure Malaysian football returns stronger and more united after this experience,” he emphasized.