KUALA LUMPUR – Kedah FC could pull out of next season’s Super League due to its ongoing financial issues.
However, the club have shown interest in joining the proposed Malaysian Premier League (MPL), which is expected to make a comeback next season.
According to sources within the football fraternity, the decision regarding the Canaries’ potential withdrawal is due to the lack of a sufficient budget to prepare for the next Super League season.
The club require at least RM 7 million to be financially stable in the league.
The source also revealed that the club are anticipating a potential takeover in the coming months and further mentioned that they have not been receiving much support from their state government.
“The chances of Kedah joining the MPL are very high, as playing and sustaining a team in that league is much cheaper and more affordable compared to the Super League.
“Many big-name players have also expressed concerns to the club’s management regarding salary issues, and the club are also exploring the possibility of a corporate takeover after not receiving sufficient support from their state government over the years.
“Losing Kedah from the Super League would be a major blow to the league’s image, as the club have consistently been a formidable presence since its inception. A decision on the club’s future in the Super League will be made by the end of this season.
“However, since the Malaysia Football League (MFL) have yet to finalise the status of the MPL, Kedah’s second option is to compete in the A1 Semi-Pro League, following the footsteps of Melaka,” said the source.
Melaka FC are also contemplating participating in the Super League due to the club’s financial challenges.
For the record, Melaka qualified for the Super League next season after winning the A1 Semi-Pro League.
Meanwhile, when Scoop contacted Kedah CEO Shahrul Samsudin for verification of this matter, he chose not to confirm or deny the speculations surrounding the club.
“We can only provide any information or official statements regarding this matter on our social media pages. For now, we have nothing further to say on the issue,” said Shahrul in a brief text message.
It is understood that Kedah recently released three of its star players—Sukhrob Nurulloev, Cleylton Santos, and Faiz Nasir—after mutually terminating their contracts with the club.
Previously, it was reported that Kedah FC’s majority shareholder, Tan Sri Mohd Daud Bakar, confirmed that the club is facing financial woes, resulting in players, coaches, and team officials not being paid their salaries since August 2023.
In an effort to raise funds, the club organised a fan engagement tour series around the state in November 2023, partnering with the Green Yellow Supporter Club, involving the sale of merchandise.
The club boasts a prestigious history, having clinched the Super League three times (1993, 2006, and 2007) and won the FA Cup five times (1990, 1993, 2007, 2008, and 2016).
They are currently ranked eighth in this season’s Super League campaign. — February 14, 2025