See You Again Next Season: Luqman Hakim Drops Strong Hint Over Negeri Sembilan FC Stay

Luqman Hakim may have just given Negeri Sembilan FC supporters a reason to look ahead with renewed optimism.

Following the end of his first season with the Jangs, the Negeri Sembilan FC player took to Instagram with a short but meaningful message that quickly caught the attention of fans. On the surface, it was a simple reflection after a difficult campaign. But one particular line stood out: “see you again next season Jangs.”

For a player whose contract is understood to be nearing its end, those words carry extra weight.

It is not an official contract announcement. It is not confirmation from the club. But it certainly does not sound like a farewell either.

A Message Of Frustration, Fight And Possible Continuity

In his Instagram post, Luqman Hakim admitted that it was a “tough ending” to his first season, before adding that “this is only the beginning.” He then promised to “come back stronger” and ended his message by telling Jangs fans that he would see them again next season.

That final phrase is what has sparked conversation among Negeri Sembilan supporters.

Footballers often choose their words carefully when a season ends, especially when their future is uncertain. Some messages sound like goodbye. Some feel open-ended. Luqman Hakim’s post, however, comes across more like a signal of continuity — or at least a strong hint that he expects to remain part of the Negeri Sembilan FC journey.

The comments under the post also reflected that mood. Teammates and supporters responded with encouragement, fire emojis and messages of support, showing that Luqman Hakim continues to enjoy backing within and around the club.

Why Fans Are Reading It As A Stay Hint

The key line is simple: “see you again next season Jangs.”

That is not the kind of wording usually associated with a player preparing to move on quietly. It suggests at least one of three possibilities.

First, Luqman Hakim may already be in discussions over staying with the club. Second, he may personally want to continue with Negeri Sembilan FC. Third, he may have received positive signs that he remains part of the club’s plans for the 2026/27 season.

Of course, until Negeri Sembilan FC make an official announcement, this remains speculation. Fans should be careful not to treat an Instagram post as confirmed proof of a renewal.

Still, in football, small messages often create big conversations — and this one is difficult to ignore.

A First Season That Should Not Be Judged Too Quickly

Luqman Hakim described it himself as his first season, and that is an important detail.

A debut campaign with a new club is rarely straightforward. Players need time to adapt to the dressing room, tactical expectations, competitive rhythm, supporter pressure and the wider football environment. When a team goes through a difficult season, that adjustment becomes even more challenging.

For Negeri Sembilan FC, the past campaign was not only about individual performances. It was also shaped by wider issues involving consistency, squad balance and the need for clearer direction moving forward.

In that context, judging Luqman Hakim too harshly after just one season would be unfair. A second year could provide a better picture of what he can truly offer, especially if the club enter the new campaign with better planning, clearer coaching structure and stronger overall stability.

Why Keeping Luqman Hakim Could Make Sense For NSFC

If Negeri Sembilan FC are serious about rebuilding for 2026/27, continuity cannot be overlooked.

Every club needs fresh quality, but constant squad turnover can also become damaging. Keeping selected players who already understand the environment can help form a more stable base. Luqman Hakim’s message suggests that he has not mentally checked out. On the contrary, the tone of his post points to a player who wants to respond, improve and prove himself.

That kind of mentality matters.

The phrase “only the beginning” is especially significant because it frames his first season not as an ending, but as a starting point. For NSFC, that could be useful if the coaching staff believe he still has room to develop and a meaningful role to play in the next phase of the squad.

However, sentiment alone should never decide contracts. Negeri Sembilan must be practical. Any renewal should be based on football reasons: role clarity, squad depth, tactical fit, attitude, development potential and overall value.

If Luqman Hakim fits that plan, keeping him could be a sensible move.

Bigger Questions Still Remain

While the post has excited supporters, there are still important questions that remain unanswered.

Has a new contract already been offered? Has an agreement been reached? Does the incoming or existing coaching structure see Luqman Hakim as part of the main plan? What role would he play next season?

These are not small matters. Negeri Sembilan FC cannot afford vague planning heading into 2026/27. The club need clarity across the squad, from retained players to new signings, from local depth to import strategy.

Luqman Hakim’s possible stay would be one piece of that bigger picture.

Not Confirmed, But Far From Goodbye

For now, Luqman Hakim’s future has not been officially confirmed. Supporters will still have to wait for an announcement from either the club or the player before drawing any final conclusion.

But his Instagram message has clearly shifted the mood.

A player preparing to leave does not usually say “see you again next season Jangs.” A player who feels disconnected does not normally speak about coming back stronger. Luqman Hakim’s words suggest there may still be more to come from him in Negeri Sembilan colours.

For Jangs fans, that is enough to keep the conversation alive.

It is not confirmation.

But it definitely does not read like goodbye.

Foreign Coach Or Local Stability? Negeri Sembilan FC Face Defining Head Coach Decision For 2026/27

Negeri Sembilan FC are approaching one of their most important decisions before the 2026/27 season even begins: who should lead the team from the touchline?

According to recent comments by NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus Muhammad Rom, the club have received more than 30 applications for the head coach position, including candidates from Japan, Australia, Spain and Croatia, alongside local options. Evaluation and interview sessions are already underway, with the club’s technical director also involved in the process.

That detail matters.

This is not just a normal coaching vacancy. It is a signal that Negeri Sembilan FC are trying to make a more structured football decision, not simply appoint a name and hope for improvement. After a difficult season filled with pressure, inconsistency and rebuilding work, the next head coach will not only inherit a squad. He will inherit a project.

The big question now is clear: should NSFC go for a foreign coach with fresh tactical ideas, or choose local stability through someone who already understands Malaysian football?

The answer is not as simple as foreign versus local.

For Negeri Sembilan FC, the right appointment must be about fit, clarity and long-term direction.

A Coaching Search With Bigger Meaning

Faliq confirmed that planning for next season is already ongoing, with NSFC receiving applications from both foreign and local candidates. He also indicated that the club are still exploring whether to appoint an international or local coach, with the final decision expected to be made by club chairman and Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, in May.

On the surface, this looks like a standard recruitment process. But for NSFC, the timing and context make it more significant.

The club are not starting from zero. Several key players are expected to remain, while around 70 percent of local players could be retained. Names such as Muhammad Azri Abdul Ghani and Luqman Hakim Shamsudin are expected to stay with the team, while import players including Takumi Sasaki and Jovan Motika are also set to remain.

That means the next head coach will not walk into a blank canvas. He will inherit a squad with existing strengths, weaknesses, personalities and expectations.

This is why the appointment must be handled carefully. A coach who wants a complete rebuild may not be the best fit if the club’s plan is to retain most of the local core. At the same time, simply keeping things comfortable without improving the playing structure would be a missed opportunity.

NSFC need evolution, not chaos.

Why The 2026/27 Appointment Matters More Than Usual

Every club says the next season is important. For Negeri Sembilan FC, that statement carries extra weight.

The club have spoken about the need for a structured playing system and a clear football philosophy. That suggests NSFC are not only looking for a motivator or short-term firefighter. They want a coach who can work within a defined football structure.

This is a positive sign, but only if the execution is serious.

Too many clubs talk about “philosophy” without actually building one. A real football philosophy must influence recruitment, training, player development, match preparation and even youth progression. It cannot be just a nice phrase used during press conferences.

If Negeri Sembilan want a more organised football identity, the next head coach must be someone who can translate that idea into visible performances.

Fans should be able to see it on the pitch. How does the team build from the back? How do they press? How do they defend transitions? How do they create chances? What type of midfield structure do they use? How do the wingers and full-backs combine? What is the role of the striker?

These are not abstract coaching theories. These are the details that decide whether a team looks organised or confused.

For NSFC, this appointment could shape not only next season’s results, but the club’s football direction for several years.

The Case For A Foreign Head Coach

There is a clear argument for appointing a foreign coach.

With applications reportedly coming from Japan, Australia, Spain and Croatia, NSFC may have access to candidates from different football cultures. Each background could offer something useful.

A Japanese coach may bring discipline, structure, technical repetition and collective organisation. A Spanish coach may bring a stronger focus on possession, positional play and ball circulation. An Australian coach may offer physical intensity, directness and competitive mentality. A Croatian coach may bring technical development, tactical discipline and strong player education.

Of course, nationality alone does not guarantee quality. A poor foreign coach is still a poor coach. But a good foreign appointment could help NSFC modernise their football environment.

A foreign coach may introduce new standards in training intensity, video analysis, fitness preparation, pressing structure, recovery methods and tactical planning. This could be especially useful if the club are serious about creating a more professional technical setup.

The biggest benefit of a foreign coach is not simply that he is foreign. It is that he may bring outside thinking.

Sometimes, a club needs someone from outside the local ecosystem to challenge old habits. If NSFC want to move beyond survival mode and become more competitive, fresh methodology could help.

But there is a serious risk.

A foreign coach who does not understand Malaysian football can struggle quickly. Liga Malaysia has its own realities: climate, pitch conditions, travel demands, squad depth limitations, refereeing patterns, budget restrictions and dressing-room culture. A coach who arrives with a rigid system and no local adaptation could fail, even if his CV looks impressive.

This is where NSFC must be sharp. They should not be blinded by passport or reputation. The club must ask harder questions.

Has the coach worked in a developing football environment before? Can he adapt to limited resources? Does he improve players, or does he only succeed with ready-made squads? Can he communicate clearly with local players? Is he willing to collaborate with the technical director?

A foreign coach could be a smart move, but only if he fits the project.

The Case For Local Stability

The case for a local coach is just as valid.

A local coach, or at least a coach with strong Malaysian football experience, would understand the league immediately. He would know the tempo, the travel, the opponents, the player market and the pressure from supporters. He would not need months just to learn how football works here.

That matters because NSFC cannot afford a slow start caused by adjustment problems.

Local stability can also help with communication. Malaysian dressing rooms often require more than tactical instruction. They require man-management, cultural understanding and emotional intelligence. A coach who understands the local football environment may be able to connect with players faster.

This is where K. Rajan’s continued role becomes important.

Faliq has stated that Rajan remains part of the club’s long-term plans and will stay within the coaching setup next season. That is a sensible decision if the club handles it properly. Rajan understands the squad, the internal environment and the difficulties the team went through. His presence can provide continuity during a transition period.

However, local stability cannot become an excuse for low ambition.

NSFC should not appoint a local coach simply because it feels safer. Safety without progress is not a strategy. The next coach must still bring tactical clarity, modern training standards and the ability to improve players.

A local appointment can work, but only if the coach has more than league familiarity. He must have a clear game model and the authority to push the team forward.

The Real Question Is Not Foreign Or Local

The debate should not be reduced to “foreign coach good” or “local coach safe”.

That is too shallow.

The real question is this: which candidate best fits Negeri Sembilan FC’s football direction?

The next head coach must align with the club’s technical director, recruitment plan, retained squad profile and long-term playing philosophy. If the club have already established a structure, then the coach must be able to work within it rather than tear everything apart.

This is where many football clubs get appointments wrong. They appoint a coach based on name, emotion or short-term pressure, then realise the squad does not suit his system. The result is predictable: poor performances, panic signings, confused players and another reset before the season is even over.

NSFC cannot afford that cycle.

With around 70 percent of local players expected to remain, the club need a coach who can improve what already exists. He must identify which players can be developed, which positions need upgrading and which tactical system brings the best out of the squad.

The new coach must not arrive with a fantasy version of football that ignores the players available. He must be ambitious, but realistic.

What Kind Of Coach Should NSFC Choose?

Negeri Sembilan FC should be looking for six key qualities.

First, the coach must have tactical clarity. He needs to know exactly how he wants the team to play in possession, out of possession and during transitions. NSFC cannot afford vague football. The players must understand their roles.

Second, he must be adaptable. A good coach has principles, but he does not force unsuitable tactics onto unsuitable players. If the squad is built around certain strengths, the coach must use them intelligently.

Third, he must have a development mindset. NSFC need someone who can improve local players, not simply complain about limitations. If the club are retaining a large local core, player development becomes essential.

Fourth, he must work well with the technical director. Modern football cannot depend on one powerful head coach doing everything alone. Recruitment, analysis, youth development and performance planning must be connected.

Fifth, he must have dressing-room authority. This does not mean shouting louder than everyone else. It means earning respect through clear communication, consistency and standards.

Sixth, he must understand realistic ambition. Negeri Sembilan FC supporters want progress, but progress must be built properly. The club need visible improvement, not empty promises.

K. Rajan’s Role Could Be Crucial

One of the more interesting parts of this situation is Rajan’s expected continuation within the coaching setup.

This could be a major advantage if managed correctly.

Rajan can help the new head coach understand the squad faster. He can provide insight into local players, internal dynamics and the challenges faced last season. He can also support the transition so the team does not lose continuity overnight.

But there is one important condition: the roles must be clear.

If NSFC appoint a new head coach, that coach must have authority over the team. Rajan’s role should support the structure, not create confusion. The same applies to the technical director. Everyone must know who makes which decisions.

A good football structure is not about collecting titles. It is about clear responsibility.

If the club can define the head coach, assistant coaches and technical director roles properly, Rajan’s presence could become a strength. If not, it could create unnecessary uncertainty.

Player Retention Makes The Decision More Sensitive

The expected retention of a large part of the local squad changes the nature of the appointment.

If most of the core remains, the new coach must be selected based on whether he can work with that group. This does not mean accepting mediocrity. It means choosing a coach whose system fits the players NSFC are keeping.

For example, if Azri Ghani remains as the main goalkeeper, how does the new coach want to build from the back? If Luqman Hakim stays, what role suits him best? If Takumi Sasaki and Jovan Motika remain, how can the coach maximise their qualities within the attacking structure?

These are football questions that must be asked before the appointment, not after.

The worst-case scenario would be appointing a coach after player decisions have already been made, only to discover that the squad does not match his preferred style.

That would be poor planning.

The better approach is to ensure the coach, technical director and recruitment team are aligned early. If 30 percent of the squad will be replaced, those signings must be made with the playing system in mind.

NSFC do not need random recruitment. They need targeted recruitment.

What Fans Should Watch Closely

For supporters, the next few months will be important.

The identity of the next head coach will say a lot about what kind of club NSFC want to become. Fans should look beyond the headline name and ask more serious questions.

Does the coach have experience building a team structure? Does he improve young players? Are his teams defensively organised? Does he have a clear attacking pattern? Can he manage local and import players together? Does he work well within a technical department?

These are better questions than simply asking whether the coach is foreign or local.

A strong appointment may not always be the most glamorous one. Sometimes the best coach is not the biggest name, but the one whose methods fit the club’s real needs.

NSFC supporters have seen enough football to know that excitement in pre-season means nothing if the team has no structure once the league begins.

The Risk Of Getting It Wrong

The danger is obvious.

If Negeri Sembilan FC choose the wrong coach, the consequences could affect the entire season. A poor appointment can lead to a slow start, confused tactics, unhappy players, wasted signings and pressure from fans. Once that cycle begins, it is difficult to stop.

In Malaysian football, clubs often do not get much time to correct mistakes. A few bad results can change the mood quickly. That is why the decision before the season may be just as important as any signing.

The new head coach must not only survive pressure. He must give the team direction.

NSFC need a coach who can make the team harder to beat, better organised and more consistent. The supporters do not expect miracles overnight, but they deserve to see a team with purpose.

Conclusion: NSFC Must Choose Fit Over Hype

Negeri Sembilan FC’s next head coach decision should not be treated as a simple choice between a foreign coach and a local coach.

A foreign coach could bring fresh ideas, stronger methodology and a new football culture. A local coach could bring league knowledge, smoother adaptation and dressing-room stability. Both routes can work. Both can also fail.

The deciding factor must be fit.

NSFC need a coach who understands the club’s direction, works with the technical director, improves the retained squad and builds a clear playing identity. With key players expected to stay and recruitment already part of the planning, this is not the time for a careless appointment.

The next coach must not be chosen for glamour. He must be chosen because he can build.

For Negeri Sembilan FC, this decision is about more than who stands on the touchline in 2026/27. It is about what kind of football future the club wants to create.

Nine Years, One Number: Selvan Anbualagan Reflects on His Negeri Sembilan FC Journey

For some players, a football club is only a place of work. For others, it becomes something much deeper — a second home, a place of growth, and a major chapter in life. For Selvan Anbualagan, Negeri Sembilan FC was clearly more than just a team he represented on the pitch.

In an exclusive interview with NSFC TV, Selvan looked back on his nine-year journey with the club, from his early days as a schoolboy footballer to becoming part of the senior squad. His story is one of loyalty, patience, friendship, sacrifice, and a shirt number that became part of his football identity.

For Negeri Sembilan supporters, Selvan’s journey is not just about appearances or seasons. It is about a player who grew with the club, stayed through different phases, and eventually had to make the difficult decision to move on in search of a new experience.

A Journey That Started from School Football

Selvan’s path to Negeri Sembilan FC did not begin through a major open trial or public selection. His journey started much earlier, during his school football days.

In the NSFC TV interview, Selvan shared that he was brought to the club by coach Adnan, who had already coached him during his school years. After finishing Form Five, Selvan received a call from coach Adnan asking him whether he wanted to continue studying or pursue football.

It was a simple question, but it carried huge consequences.

Selvan did not make the decision immediately. He spoke with his family first, and they gave him the freedom to decide his own future. After thinking about it, he called coach Adnan back and chose football. That decision eventually brought him to Negeri Sembilan FC in 2018.

Looking back now, that moment was the first major turning point of his career. It was not only about joining a football club. It was about choosing a path, taking a risk, and trusting the opportunity placed in front of him.

From Youth Player to Senior Team Member

When Selvan first arrived at Negeri Sembilan FC, he joined the youth setup. At that stage, there was no guarantee that he would stay for many years, reach the senior team, or become a familiar name among the supporters.

But football careers are rarely built overnight. For many players, progress happens slowly — through training, patience, discipline, and the ability to survive difficult periods.

Selvan’s journey followed that path. He started with the youth team in 2018, spent time developing within the club structure, and later progressed into the Premier League squad around 2020. From there, he continued his journey as part of the senior setup.

What makes his story meaningful is not just that he played for Negeri Sembilan FC. It is that he grew inside the club. He came in as a young player and spent almost a decade wearing the colours of the team.

For fans, players like this carry a different kind of emotional value. They are not remembered only for one match or one moment. They are remembered because they were part of the club’s daily story for years.

The 2021 Premier League Title: A Defining Memory

Every long football journey has certain moments that stand above the rest. For Selvan, one of the most meaningful memories was Negeri Sembilan FC’s 2021 Premier League title success.

When asked about his most memorable moment with the club, Selvan pointed to that championship-winning campaign. It was a major achievement for Negeri Sembilan FC and a special personal milestone for him.

That title was more than just a trophy. It represented belief, progress, and the reward for years of work. For a player who had grown through the club’s system, being part of that success carried even greater meaning.

The 2021 triumph also remains an important chapter in the modern story of Negeri Sembilan FC. It marked a period of ambition and achievement, and Selvan was part of the group that helped deliver that moment to the supporters.

For a player reflecting on nine years with the club, it is easy to understand why that title stands out. It was not just a football achievement. It was a memory built with teammates, coaches, staff, and fans who had shared the same journey.

The Number 16: More Than a Shirt Number

Perhaps the most symbolic part of Selvan’s reflection was the meaning behind his shirt number.

When asked to describe his nine years with Negeri Sembilan FC in one word, Selvan answered: “Number.”

That answer says a lot. For Selvan, the number 16 was not just a squad number printed on the back of his shirt. It became part of his identity at the club.

He explained that when he first joined the youth team, he was given the number 16. Later, he discovered that the number had also been worn by his idol, S. Kunanlan, who is also a distant relative. From that point, the number carried deeper personal meaning for him.

In football, numbers can become powerful symbols. Some numbers are remembered because of great goals. Some are remembered because of leadership. Some become connected to a player simply because he wears them with pride over many years.

For Selvan, number 16 became a link between his beginning, his inspiration, and his own journey with Negeri Sembilan FC. It represented where he started, who he looked up to, and the identity he built during his time with the club.

That is why the number matters. It was never just a number.

Watching Negeri Sembilan FC Grow

Selvan’s nine years at Negeri Sembilan FC were not only about his own development. During that period, he also witnessed changes within the club itself.

In the interview, Selvan pointed out one major improvement: the club now has its own training field and better facilities for players.

That may sound like a simple detail, but it matters. In professional football, facilities are not just background infrastructure. They affect preparation, player development, recovery, training quality, and the overall professionalism of a club.

Selvan’s observation shows that his time with Negeri Sembilan FC ran parallel with the club’s own growth. The club he joined as a young player in 2018 was not exactly the same club he left years later.

As he developed, the club also moved forward.

For supporters, this is an important reminder. Progress in football is not always visible only through league tables or transfer announcements. Sometimes, progress is seen in the daily environment around the players — the training ground, the facilities, the structure, and the standards expected inside the club.

Brotherhood Beyond Football

Football is often judged through results, goals, points, and league positions. But for players, the dressing room can be just as important as the pitch.

During his interview with NSFC TV, Selvan spoke about the teammate who became like a brother to him: Java, or N. Javabilaarivin.

Selvan shared that when he first arrived at the club, he did not have many friends. Java helped him settle in, guided him, brought him out to eat, and made him feel comfortable in a new environment. Over time, their relationship became very close.

That kind of bond matters. A young player arriving at a new club needs more than football ability. He needs people who can help him adapt, feel welcome, and build confidence.

For Selvan, Java was one of those people.

Their friendship also lasted through different stages of Selvan’s Negeri Sembilan FC journey, from youth football to the senior team environment. In modern football, where players often move quickly from one club to another, that kind of long-term connection is special.

It shows that Selvan’s story with Negeri Sembilan FC was not only built through matches and trophies. It was also built through relationships, trust, and the people who helped him along the way.

A Difficult Decision to Leave

After nine years, leaving Negeri Sembilan FC was never going to be easy.

Selvan admitted that it was difficult to leave the club after spending such a long period there. At the same time, he explained that he wanted to seek a new experience outside the club.

That is the reality of football. Loyalty matters, but careers also require new challenges. A player can love a club deeply and still feel that it is time to experience something different.

For supporters, departures are often emotional, especially when the player has been part of the club for many years. But Selvan’s farewell did not come across as cold or distant. It felt like the words of someone who understood what the club had meant to him.

He was not leaving as a stranger. He was leaving as someone who had spent a major part of his football life with Negeri Sembilan FC.

In football, not every goodbye is negative. Some goodbyes are simply the natural end of a chapter. Selvan’s departure feels like that kind of moment — emotional, respectful, and full of memory.

A Message of Gratitude to the Fans

One of the strongest parts of Selvan’s interview was his appreciation for the supporters.

He said the fans had supported him from the time he started playing professionally in 2020 until now. Whether he played well or badly, he felt that the supporters continued to stand behind him. He also acknowledged that without the fans, he would not have stayed at the club for so long.

That message should mean something to Negeri Sembilan FC fans.

Supporters often wonder whether their loyalty is truly felt by players. In Selvan’s case, the answer is clear. He noticed it. He appreciated it. And he understood the role the fans played in his journey.

The support from the stands, the encouragement during difficult moments, and the belief shown throughout the years became part of his story. For a player who spent almost a decade with the club, that relationship with the fans was clearly one of the reasons his time at Negeri Sembilan FC carried so much emotional weight.

A Chapter Ends, But the Story Remains

Selvan Anbualagan’s Negeri Sembilan FC journey was not built around one single match. It was built across nine years.

It began with a call from coach Adnan. It continued through youth football, senior football, the 2021 Premier League title, changing club facilities, close friendships, and the constant support of the fans.

At the centre of it all was one number: 16.

For Selvan, that number became more than a shirt. It became a symbol of his beginning, his inspiration, and his years of service to Negeri Sembilan FC.

His departure marks the end of a long chapter, but not the disappearance of his story. Players come and go in football, but those who spend years growing with a club leave behind something deeper than statistics.

Selvan may now be moving on to seek a new experience, but his number 16 journey will remain part of Negeri Sembilan FC’s modern memory.

Nine years. One number. Countless memories.

K. Rajan Set to Remain With Negeri Sembilan FC After Strong Unbeaten Finish

Negeri Sembilan FC interim head coach K. Rajan looks set to continue his journey with the club as preparations begin for the upcoming 2026/2027 Malaysia League campaign.

The 45-year-old coach confirmed that he has been informed by the club management that he remains part of NSFC’s plans for next season. However, his official role within the team has yet to be finalised.

Speaking to reporters after the Malaysia Super League match at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, Rajan expressed his gratitude to the club for continuing to place trust in him.

“I have been informed by the club management that I am included in their plans and will remain with the team for next season’s campaign.

“However, in terms of my position within the team, that has not been determined yet. We will wait for the official announcement. I would like to thank the club for giving me the opportunity to continue contributing to this team,” said Rajan.

Rajan was appointed to take charge of the team following the resignation of Nidzam Jamil in mid-February. Since stepping into the role, he has helped steady the squad and guide Negeri Sembilan FC through a much-improved run of form.

Under his leadership, the Hobin Jang Hobin squad ended the league campaign unbeaten in their final eight matches, a strong response after a challenging period earlier in the season.

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Rajan said he was pleased with the progress shown by the players, coaches and support staff.

“I think this is a good result. Finishing seventh in the league this season is also better than last season’s 12th-place finish. We have to give credit to the players, coaches and support staff,” he said.

The improvement is a significant boost for NSFC as the club now turns its attention towards building a stronger foundation for the 2026/2027 season.

While the official structure of the coaching team has yet to be announced, Rajan’s expected continuation offers a sense of stability for Negeri Sembilan FC. His familiarity with the squad, recent unbeaten momentum and understanding of the club’s environment could prove valuable as the team prepares for the next phase.

For the supporters, the message is clear: NSFC ended the season with belief, resilience and progress. The challenge now is to turn that late-season momentum into a more consistent campaign when the new Malaysia League season begins.

With several key decisions still to come, including coaching roles, squad planning and player evaluation, Negeri Sembilan FC appear to be taking early steps towards a more competitive future.

For now, K. Rajan’s continued presence is a positive sign that the club wants to build on what worked — not start again from zero.

Jovan Motika Embraces Negeri Sembilan Colours After Confirmed Contract Extension

Negeri Sembilan FC forward Jovan Motika has given supporters another reason to smile after sharing an emotional Instagram post celebrating his continued journey with the club.

The Bosnia and Herzegovina attacker, who has already been confirmed as one of four import players to sign new deals with NSFC, posted a striking graphic featuring himself in Negeri Sembilan colours alongside the bold text “Jovan Motika 9” and “2028”.

His caption captured the mood perfectly:

“Jatuh cinta dengan warna-warna ini, jumpa lagi musim depan 💛🖤❤️
✌️ lebih banyak”

In English, the message can be understood as: “Fell in love with these colours, see you again next season. More to come.”

For the Jang faithful, it was more than just a social media update. It was a clear message of affection, belief and ambition from a player who appears to have fully embraced the identity of Negeri Sembilan FC.

Motika’s extension was confirmed earlier as part of NSFC’s early preparations for the 2026/27 season, with the club also retaining Takumi Sasaki, Kei Oshiro and Yuichi Hirano. According to NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus, all four players recently agreed to extend their contracts with the club as Negeri Sembilan look to build continuity rather than start from scratch. 

That decision is significant. Motika finished as one of NSFC’s key attacking contributors, with N9FC.com’s player ranking table listing him among the club’s leading scorers for the season. His return gives the team an important attacking option heading into a campaign where stability and smarter squad planning will be crucial.

The Instagram post also reflects something supporters value deeply: connection. Players come and go in modern football, especially foreign imports, but Motika’s words suggest he has developed a genuine attachment to the club’s colours — yellow, black and red — and to the journey being built in Negeri Sembilan.

The phrase “lebih banyak”, meaning “more”, will naturally excite fans. It hints at unfinished business, greater motivation and a desire to deliver stronger performances next season.

For NSFC, keeping Motika is not only a footballing decision. It is also a statement of direction. The club has made it clear that it wants to retain a strong core from the current squad, with Faliq previously stating that Negeri Sembilan are looking to keep around 70 percent of the team for the 2026/27 league season. 

After a season filled with challenges, that continuity could become one of the foundations for a better campaign ahead.

For now, Motika’s message is simple but powerful: he is staying, he has embraced the colours, and he wants more.

For the Jang supporters, that is exactly the kind of signal they want to see before the next chapter begins.

Aminuddin Backs NSFC Revival: “This Season’s Challenges Must Become Our Strength”

Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar and Negeri Sembilan FC Chairman, Dato’ Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun, has expressed confidence that the Jang squad can bounce back stronger next season, using the challenges faced throughout the current campaign as valuable lessons for the future.

Speaking after the Negeri Sembilan State Government Weekly Meeting, Aminuddin said that while NSFC had endured a demanding season marked by various difficulties, every challenge had been addressed and should now serve as a foundation for improvement.

“I would like to thank everyone who continues to believe that NSFC can keep growing in the coming season. Throughout this season, we faced many issues, but Alhamdulillah, every problem had a solution,” he said.

Aminuddin, who is also the Chairman of NSFC, made the remarks after witnessing the official partnership ceremony between Negeri Sembilan FC and local nutrition brand NE-6, which was announced as the club’s Official Energy Gel Partner. The event took place at the State Operations Room, Wisma Negeri.

According to him, the experience gained from this season will be crucial for both the management and the team as they prepare for a more competitive campaign ahead.

“That experience is a lesson we can build on. It gives us the opportunity to improve ourselves and strengthen our performance next season,” he added.

Call for Fans to Stand Behind the Team

Aminuddin also called on loyal Negeri Sembilan supporters to continue giving their moral support to the squad ahead of the team’s final match of the season against Kelantan at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, this Saturday.

He said the bond between the fans and the club remains strong despite the ups and downs experienced throughout the season.

“I know the supporters still love the Negeri Sembilan team. I urge them to continue supporting the players and come to the stadium to lift the spirit of the squad.

The support shown by fans this season has remained encouraging, even though the team has gone through inconsistent performances.

At the start of the season, the support was very proud to see, and even towards the end of the campaign, the backing for NSFC remains strong compared to many other teams,” he said.

For NSFC, the message is clear: the final match is not merely about closing the season. It is also about restoring belief, strengthening unity and giving the players one final push in front of the home crowd.

NE-6 Partnership Strengthens NSFC’s Sports Science Direction

Meanwhile, NSFC has taken another step towards improving player performance by officially partnering with NE-6, a local nutrition brand that will support the club as its Official Energy Gel Partner.

The collaboration is expected to contribute to the club’s sports science and performance strategy, particularly in helping players maintain fitness, energy levels and physical readiness during training and matchdays.

In modern football, details such as nutrition, recovery, hydration and energy management can make a real difference. For NSFC, this partnership reflects a broader effort to become a more professional and performance-driven club.

While results on the pitch remain the main focus for supporters, the foundations behind the scenes are just as important. Partnerships like this suggest that NSFC is looking beyond short-term fixes and working towards a more structured approach for the future.

A Season of Lessons, A Future of Possibility

The 2025 campaign has tested Negeri Sembilan FC in many ways. However, Aminuddin’s remarks signal a determination within the club leadership to turn setbacks into progress.

For the fans, the hope is simple: a stronger NSFC, a more stable squad and a clearer direction heading into next season.

As the Jang prepare for their final home battle at Paroi, the message from the club’s chairman is one of resilience and belief.

The season may have been difficult, but the mission continues.

Ayuh Jang. Stand together, finish strong, and build again.

Beyond the Badge: NSFC Strengthen Commercial Future Through Strategic Energy Fuel Partnership

Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) are taking another important step towards building a more sustainable, professional and competitive football club, with a renewed focus on commercial growth and player performance development.

NSFC Chief Executive Officer, Faliq Firdaus Muhammad Rom, said the club’s sponsorship partnership with Energy Fuel represents more than a commercial agreement. Instead, it reflects confidence in the club’s long-term vision, direction and future ambitions.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of the strategic partnership between NSFC and Energy Fuel, Faliq stressed that sponsorship in modern football has evolved beyond simple brand visibility.

“Sponsorship in the modern football era is no longer just about displaying a brand logo. It is also about believing in the development of a club,” he said.

“For us at NSFC, sponsorship is not merely about logos or branding on LED boards. It is about trust in the vision, the journey and the future we are trying to build.”

According to Faliq, the demands of modern football require high levels of discipline, intensity and performance. As a result, areas such as sports science, nutrition and player recovery have become increasingly vital in helping teams compete consistently throughout the season.

He said the collaboration with Energy Fuel would not only strengthen the club commercially, but also support NSFC’s efforts to provide players with better performance resources.

“This partnership does not only help from a commercial perspective, but also plays an important role in ensuring that NSFC players receive the best possible performance support throughout the season,” he added.

Faliq also highlighted the shared values between NSFC and Energy Fuel, particularly resilience, consistency and the determination to keep moving forward despite challenges.

The three-year sponsorship agreement is expected to become more than a short-term commercial arrangement. NSFC hope it will develop into a long-term strategic relationship that benefits both parties and contributes to the club’s wider growth.

“NSFC are on a journey to build a club that is more sustainable, professional and competitive, not only on the pitch but also in terms of management and commercial value,” Faliq said.

The CEO also expressed his appreciation to Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar, Dato’ Seri Utama Aminuddin Harun, who is also the Chairman of NSFC, for his continuous support in strengthening the club’s commercial position.

For Negeri Sembilan supporters, this partnership signals a positive move behind the scenes. While results on the pitch remain the main focus for fans, modern football success is also shaped by strong management, better commercial planning and improved player support systems.

With Energy Fuel now part of the club’s journey, NSFC appear determined to lay stronger foundations for the future — one built on professionalism, performance and long-term sustainability.

One Last Dance: Negeri Sembilan FC Pay Tribute to Loyal Servant A. Selvan After Nine-Year Journey

Negeri Sembilan FC have paid an emotional tribute to long-serving player A. Selvan, whose time with the club is set to come to an end at the conclusion of his contract this month.

In a heartfelt statement shared on the club’s official Facebook page, NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus described Selvan as more than just a player who wore the famous red, black and yellow colours. For nine years, Selvan was part of the club’s modern journey, growing from the Under-18 squad into a senior-team figure who represented the values of loyalty, sacrifice and commitment.

Selvan’s departure marks the end of a meaningful chapter for both the player and the club. His final appearance this week has been framed as “The Last Dance” for the club’s No. 16, with supporters encouraged to give him a proper send-off during Negeri Sembilan FC’s match against Kelantan The Real Warriors at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi.

For many supporters, Selvan represents a type of footballer that modern football does not always celebrate enough. He may not always have been the headline name, but he was part of the foundation — the kind of player who stayed, adapted and served whenever the team needed him.

Faliq Firdaus praised Selvan’s rare loyalty in the modern game, noting that nine years with one club is something increasingly uncommon. He also highlighted Selvan’s willingness to play in different positions to help the team according to the demands of each season.

“Players like this may not always be the main headline, but they are the true backbone of a football club,” said Faliq in his statement.

The CEO also confirmed that the club understands Selvan’s desire to seek a new challenge, while expressing appreciation for his service and commitment throughout his years with Negeri Sembilan FC.

Selvan’s journey with NSFC is a reminder that football clubs are built not only by star signings and big moments, but also by players who grow with the badge, understand the culture and give their best through different phases of the club’s story.

As the Hobin Jang Hobin family prepares to say thank you, Saturday’s match at Paroi will carry extra emotion. It will not only be about the result on the pitch, but also about honouring a player who has given a significant part of his footballing life to Negeri Sembilan FC.

Thank you, Selvan. One last dance. Demi Negeri.

NSFC Build Early Momentum for 2026/27 as Four Import Players Sign New Deals

Negeri Sembilan FC have taken an early step in preparing for next season’s Super League campaign by retaining four of their current import players.

The players are Bosnia and Herzegovina forward Jovan Motika, alongside three Japanese players — forward Takumi Sasaki, midfielder Kei Oshiro, and midfielder Yuichi Hirano.

NSFC Chief Executive Officer Faliq Firdaus said all four players recently signed new contracts with the club.

“Four of our import players from this season have agreed to extend their contracts with NSFC, while the rest of the squad will be assessed later.

“As for another import player, Mio Tsuneyasu, his position has yet to be finalised as the Japanese player is believed to be looking for a new challenge,” he said after the sponsorship handover ceremony by local nutrition brand NE-G, which has been announced as the club’s Official Energy Gel Partner.

The ceremony was witnessed by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, who is also the Chairman of NSFC; State Secretary Datuk Mohd. Zafir Ibrahim; and NE-G Operations Manager Amir Shah Daud.

Faliq added that NSFC are not rushing into a major squad overhaul as the club aims to build a stronger and more stable team for next season’s Super League challenge.

“We are planning to retain around 70 percent of this season’s squad to carry our challenge into the 2026/2027 league season,” he said.

Meanwhile, through the strategic partnership announced today, Amir Shah said NE-G will provide energy nutrition support to The Jangs’ senior squad.

“This is not merely a conventional sponsorship. It is also a proactive initiative by the club to ensure the players receive optimum energy supply through competitive and innovative energy gel technology,” he said.

For Negeri Sembilan FC, the move signals a clear intention: strengthen the core, maintain continuity, and prepare early for a more competitive campaign ahead.

Jang End Super League Campaign on a High with 2-1 Victory Over Kelantan TRW

Negeri Sembilan FC signed off their Super League campaign in winning fashion after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kelantan The Real Warriors at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Paroi, last night.

The Jang made a flying start in front of their home supporters, taking the lead as early as the eighth minute through Ahmad Khuzaimi Piee, who rose well to head home from a corner kick.

Just three minutes later, Negeri Sembilan doubled their advantage. Kelantan TRW’s defensive lapse was punished by NSFC import forward Mio Tsuneyasu, who found himself unmarked before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Mohammad Fikri Che Soh in the 11th minute.

Despite trailing by two goals, the visitors refused to give up. Kelantan TRW pulled one back in the 27th minute through forward Muhammad Asraf Alifuddin Yasin, giving the away side renewed hope heading into the remainder of the match.

NSFC had a golden opportunity to restore their two-goal cushion in the 39th minute after being awarded a penalty. However, Joseph Esso’s effort from the spot was denied by Mohammad Fikri, who produced an important save to keep Kelantan TRW in the contest.

The second half saw Negeri Sembilan push aggressively in search of another goal, creating several dangerous moments in the Kelantan TRW penalty area. However, Mohammad Fikri remained alert between the posts, denying the home side on multiple occasions.

Despite the pressure, the scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle, confirming a 2-1 victory for Negeri Sembilan FC.

The result sees NSFC conclude their Super League season in seventh place with 29 points, while Kelantan TRW finish 12th with 15 points.

For the Jang, it was a positive way to close the campaign — a committed performance, three valuable points, and a final home result to reward the supporters at Paroi.