SUNGAI PETANI: Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor today claimed that the management system used by teams competing in Malaysia's Super League is flawed and only benefits certain clubs.
The Menteri Besar, who is also the Kedah Football Association president, said the action of forcing all state teams to adopt the management methods adopted by a single team should have not been implemented.
As such, Sanusi called for a review of the management system, which he blamed for issues such as salary arreas that continue to plague several teams, including Kedah FC.
"The existing model for managing local football clubs has failed to allow states to manage their teams effectively.
"Why must other states be forced to follow this system when they clearly cannot handle it? Why should we be bound by one state's model? If most clubs are struggling and only one thrives, can they play alone?
"This system is flawed, and it must be stopped. Enough is enough," he said during a press conference after closing the Insan Sejahtera Festival 2024 at Masjid Tunku Sallehuddin here today.
Sanusi said resolving Kedah FC's salary disputes is no longer the state government's responsibility, following the club's privatisation.
He added that the state government had already provided RM2 million in financial aid to support Kedah FC's management this year.
"Even as a private club, we continue to offer financial support through the KFA.
"This year alone, we contributed RM2 million for the club's licensing matters," he added.
Sanusi suggested Kedah FC may need to review its management system, particularly in managing player salaries, which have become excessively high.
"Back when the Kedah State Development Corporation (PKNK) was paying salaries, players were earning RM6,000 to RM7,000, and we still managed to win the Malaysia Cup.
"Why, with salaries now in the tens of thousands, is the team struggling?
"Clearly, there's something wrong with this system. It needs a review. Teams should be managed within their means.
"I believe it's not just Kedah FC; other states are also facing financial difficulties. But I won't comment on other states," he added.
It was previously reported that the Kedah FC players boycotted training sessions for the past few days due to not receiving salary payments for the past few months.