KUALA LUMPUR – Baddrol Bakhtiar has made a heartfelt commitment to impart everything he learned from his esteemed mentor and late head coach, Azraai Khor Abdullah, towards nurturing the finest talents in Kedah FC B.
The 36-year-old, a club legend with the Canaries during his time at the club from 2006-2021, was recently appointed as the team manager of Kedah FC B, with Khairul Ismail as the head coach for the team.
Baddrol was part of coach Azraai’s back-to-back treble-winning team, which also saw him winning the PFAM (Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia) Young Player of the Year award in 2007 and 2008.
Speaking to Scoop, Baddrol said it’s his duty to continue the legacy of his late coach and ensure that the team continues to produce more talent for the senior team.
“Coach Azraai gave opportunities to all the young players during his time at the club, and that’s the reason why I’m here today as a successful person. I personally believe that I need to continue his legacy by developing more Kedah-based players for the senior team to excel in tournaments.
“The club has loads of potential in the youth ranks, and we need to utilise it for the betterment of the club.
“It has always been my dream to make a comeback to the club and serve the club that has given me everything in life, and finally, I’m back to where I belong.
“I’m also excited to begin the role given to me, and I’m thankful to the management of Kedah FC for the opportunity given,” said Baddrol, who is also a member of the Kedah State Legislative Assembly for Gurun, when contacted.
Aside from Baddrol, Kedah FC has also brought in former club midfielder Nelson San Martin to become the technical director of the club.
San Martin won accolades with Kedah FC through his midfield prowess alongside teammates Ahmad Fauzi Saari, Marlon Alex James, Mohd Khyril Muhymeen Zambri, and Baddrol, and was also part of coach Azraai’s back-to-back treble-winning side.
Azraai, considered the greatest Kedah FC coach of all time, died at the age of 71 after suffering a stroke last month.
Despite financial challenges, Kedah FC remained active in the transfer market, acquiring talents such as Rizal Ghazali and Irfan Zakaria from Sabah FC and Zamri Pin Ramli from Negeri Sembilan FC.
They also continue to deliver on the pitch, securing fourth place with 53 points in the 2023 Super League season.
The club boasts a prestigious history, having clinched the Super League title three times (1993, 2006, and 2007) and winning the FA Cup five times (1990, 1993, 2007, 2008, and 2016). – March 29, 2024