KUALA LUMPUR: Could former Australian international Tim Cahill be joining the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, in efforts to transform Malaysian football?
Speculation is mounting after the former Everton star met with Tunku Ismail, Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) CEO Alistair Edwards and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in August.
This development could be a boost for Malaysian football, drawing on Cahill's extensive experience at the highest levels of the sport.
Previously, Tunku Ismail, who also owns JDT, hinted that the future of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) might come under his leadership.
Responding to a question on Instagram about a potential return to FAM, he said: "I won't be joining FAM, FAM will join me."
Anwar announced a RM15 million allocation under the 2025 Budget to support football development for Harimau Malaya and the national Under-18 and Under-13 squads in partnership with FAM.
Cahill, former captain of Australia, also showed interest in the progress, applauding Anwar's announcement on X (formerly Twitter) with, "Congratulations Malaysian football."
A seasoned figure in international football from his time with Everton in the English Premier League, Cahill currently serves as chief sports officer at Aspire Academy and as the technical director for the Qatar Football Association.