Negeri Sembilan FC chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus has reiterated the club’s firm ambition to compete at a higher level, despite salvaging a late result against Kuala Lumpur FC in the recent Malaysia Super League fixture.
Speaking to OhMedia after the match, Faliq admitted that while the team managed to recover in the closing stages, the overall feeling within the club was one of dissatisfaction.
“Honestly, we are not satisfied. We came into the match with a winning mentality,” he said. “As management, our mindset is always to win. But given the circumstances, we had to accept the result — even though it wasn’t what we truly wanted.”
Clear Standards and Honest Self-Assessment
Faliq stressed that the club’s leadership is fully aware of the team’s current shortcomings. According to him, recent performances have provided clarity on areas that require immediate improvement, particularly as the season progresses beyond the mid-point.
“We already know where the problems are,” he explained. “The management and leadership are aligned on this. There is no denial — we have identified what needs to be fixed, and we are working on it.”
Squad Reinforcements on the Horizon
Addressing questions about squad strengthening, Faliq confirmed that reinforcements are part of the club’s plans, including players with experience from high-level leagues.
“There will be improvements to the squad,” he said. “Some players are already being identified, including those with experience in competitive environments like the J-League pathway. But at this moment, we cannot reveal names.”
He added that when the time is right, supporters will be the first to know.
“InsyaAllah, when everything is finalised, we will share the details. Our supporters deserve transparency, but we must follow the proper process.”
Trust, Patience and Direction
While acknowledging fan expectations, Faliq called for continued trust and patience as the club executes its long-term vision.
“This is a process. We are building with a clear direction, not reacting emotionally to one match,” he said. “What’s important is that the club remains honest about its standards and committed to improving.”
The message from the top is clear: Negeri Sembilan FC may have taken a point, but complacency is not an option. The club’s leadership remains focused on strengthening the team and ensuring performances on the pitch match the ambition off it.