Cklamovski, Nafuzi Part Ways With National Team

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- It is the end of an era for Peter Cklamovski and Nafuzi Zain as head coaches of the senior and Under-23 (U-23) national teams, respectively after they officially announced their departures, today. 

Cklamovski, who led the Harimau Malaya squad, expressed his gratitude through the Malaysia NT official page stating that the time has come for him to pursue new challenges.

"I would like to sincerely thank all involved for the support and now for understanding my decision that the time has come for me to take on a new challenge," he said.

Reflecting on his journey, he praised the dedication shown by his team and players, noting that their shared goal was always to bring honour to the country.

"My deepest appreciation goes to the players and staff who gave everything throughout this journey. Every training session, every match and every moment together was driven by the same objective to make Malaysia proud," Cklamovski said.

The coach also highlighted the immense potential of the sport in the country, stressing the importance of protecting its footballing culture.

"Malaysian football has incredible potential. The passion of the supporters, the talent of the players, and the love for the game in this country are things that must always be protected. My hope is that Malaysian football continues to grow, with decisions always guided by what is best for the game, the players, and the future of the nation," he said.

Meanwhile, the national football fraternity was further hit by the departure of national U-23 head coach, Nafuzi who said it was a difficult decision to bid farewell to a squad he holds in high regard.

"Thank you to everyone involved in my career journey. Especially to the management, support staff, players and supporters who are always behind me and give me unwavering support and enthusiasm," he said.

Despite his exit, Nafuzi remains optimistic about the future of the young Harimau Malaya squad, describing the players as the nation's most valuable assets.

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) had earlier confirmed the contract of national team chief executive officer (CEO), Robert Douglas Friend, better known as Rob Friend, was terminated through mutual agreement effective June 1.

The contracts of Cklamovski and two senior squad technical staff members, Matthew Smith and Seiya Imazaki, were also terminated by mutual agreement, effective June 16.

FAM also informed that the contracts of Nafuzi Zain and goalkeeper coach, Mohd Yazid Mohd Yassin, were terminated through mutual agreement, effective June 15.

The association stated that further developments regarding the national team management will be announced from time to time.

-- BERNAMA