KUALA LUMPUR — The arrival of Jesé Rodríguez to Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) marks a significant step in the club’s ambition to become a powerhouse in Asian football.
After dominating the domestic scene for over a decade, JDT’s sights are now set higher, and according to JDT coaching staff member Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak, Rodríguez’s presence will also have a transformative impact on the development of their star player, Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi.
The nation was taken by surprise when JDT signed Rodríguez, a former Real Madrid winger known for his flair and experience on the field.
The 31-year-old, who once played alongside football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Gareth Bale, and Luka Modric, is expected to dazzle on the flanks while donning the iconic Southern Tigers jersey, with the number 33 on his back.
Rodríguez’s glittering career includes two UEFA Champions League titles, one La Liga title, a FIFA Club World Cup, and a Copa del Rey, all of which he won during his time at Real Madrid.
A product of the Real Madrid academy, Rodríguez has also played for other major clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Sampdoria, Stoke City, and Real Betis. His most recent stint was with the Brazilian side Coritiba.
As JDT’s third high-profile signing from European football, following Pablo Aimar and Jordi Amat, Rodríguez is expected to bring a wealth of experience to the team, which Aidil believes will significantly benefit 22-year-old Arif Aiman.
“Rodríguez is a top player with an impressive track record, having played for some of the world’s most elite clubs and leagues.
“His presence will undoubtedly have a positive impact on all our players, both on and off the field,” said Aidil, a JDT club legend and a respected figure in the local football scene.
Having already been named Malaysia’s Most Valuable Player for three consecutive years (2021, 2022, and 2023), Arif’s talent is undeniable.
But Aidil is confident that Rodríguez’s mentorship will push Arif to new heights, positioning him as one of the top players in Asia.
“At just 22 years old, Arif will be able to learn a great deal from Rodríguez, which will undoubtedly elevate his performance to new levels,” Aidil added.
“It’s an honour for Arif and all the young local footballers at our club to share the pitch with a Champions League winner—a rare opportunity in Malaysia.”
Aidil also highlighted Arif’s eagerness to learn and continuously improve, qualities that have made him one of Malaysia’s top footballers.
A product of Akademi Mokhtar Dahari and JDT’s youth academy, Arif has already earned 30 caps for Harimau Malaya and scored 42 goals in 134 appearances for JDT since his debut in 2020.
Aidil further emphasised that Rodriguez’s competitive nature will not only help JDT compete for more silverware but also strengthen the team’s performance in the AFC Champions League (ACL).
“Having a player of his quality will help us compete for more titles and improve our standing in the AFC Champions League. Even as a coach, I’m excited to work with such an experienced player, just as I do with the rest of the team,” he said.
JDT has already emerged as a formidable side in the ACL, following their 3-0 victory over Shanghai Shenhua at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium and a 2-2 draw with Chinese champions Shanghai Port in Shanghai last month.
With Rodríguez’s experience and Arif’s burgeoning talent, JDT’s recent strong showing in the AFC Champions League is just the beginning of what could be a new era for the club.
JDT currently sits at the top of the Malaysia Super League with 31 points. — October 6, 2024