KUALA LUMPUR: In a bold move set to reshape the future of the M-League, the Malaysian Football League (MFL) has appointed Giorgio Pompili Rossi, a former La Liga delegate, as its new chief executive officer.
Rossi, who previously served as La Liga's delegate to Malaysia, takes over from Datuk Stuart Ramalingam, whose contract expired on August 31.
His appointment was approved by the MFL board on Sept 4, making him the first foreigner to assume the role.
"We are honoured to have Rossi at MFL," said MFL president Datuk Ghani Hassan.
"His extensive La Liga background will give a strong impetus to our football industry. We are fully confident in his abilities and expertise to lead as the new CEO."
Rossi's illustrious career began in 2013 as a business and sales agent for Serie A clubs before he joined Spanish giants Valencia.
In 2017, he became La Liga's delegate to Malaysia, where he played a pivotal role in boosting the Spanish league's brand and fan base in the country.
From 2021 until his recent appointment, Rossi expanded his influence as La Liga's delegate in Thailand, covering Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.
His wealth of international experience is expected to inject new energy into the MFL's operations, particularly in competition and commercial aspects."
Rossi's experience and impressive profile will strengthen MFL," Ghani added.
"We look forward to the innovations he will bring to our league."
The news of Rossi's appointment was first revealed by FA of Malaysia (FAM) media and communications committee chairman, Christopher Raj.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, he shared a photo of Rossi delivering a speech at the MFL partners' meeting held at the Le Meridien Hotel in Petaling Jaya.
"Welcome to MFL @GiorgioPR_," Christopher wrote, signaling a new chapter for Malaysian football.
Before introducing Rossi, Christopher expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Stuart, reflecting his six-year tenure at MFL and as FAM secretary-general as transformative.
"Stuart's leadership has been exemplary and transformative," said Christopher.
"His visionary guidance and unwavering dedication have profoundly influenced the direction of the organisation.
"The commercial acumen he brought to MFL and his strategic insights have elevated our standing and set a new benchmark that will endure long after his departure."
He also highlighted Stuart's ability to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.