KUALA LUMPUR: Is winger Arif Aiman Hanapi good enough to play outside Malaysia?
Former national player Safee Sali said Arif should play in the Middle East, preferably in the Saudi Pro League, when he is ready.
The Saudi Pro League is set to grab attention as its clubs have signed several top players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Roberto Firmino.
However, Safee said, Arif should remain at JDT to further improve his game before venturing outside the country.
Arif has been outstanding for Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Harimau Malaya in the last two years.
The 21-year-old showed his pedigree for Harimau Malaya when he scored four goals in the 10-0 thrashing of Papua New Guinea in a friendly in Kuala Terengganu on June 14.
He continued his stunning form by scoring three goals in JDT's 4-0 win over Selangor in the FA Cup semi-finals on June 26.
Arif has received offers from Japanese and South Korean clubs and interest from Europe, but he remains committed to JDT.
Safee said it was not the right time for Arif to play abroad.
"Arif is still young and has a long way to go. He might burnout if he plays abroad too soon. He should stay at JDT to develop his game," said Safee after the FA of Malaysia congress in Petaling Jaya today.
"I am worried his performance will decline if he plies his trade overseas too early. In football, if you rise too fast, you will fall much harder."
Safee added: "The Saudi Pro League suits Arif's speed and style of play. If he wants to go abroad, he should play in the Middles East, preferably in Saudi Arabia.
"It is better to move to another club in Asia rather than heading straight to Europe.
"Arif has a good attitude and is always striving to improve, and this is a special quality."
According to transfermarkt.com, Arif's value has increased from RM638,000 in 2021 to RM2.3 million this year.
Arif has earned 16 caps and scored five goals for Harimau Malaya.
He has helped JDT win six trophies since making his debut three years ago.