Johor Bahru: Despite having the potential to make a name for himself abroad, sensational winger Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi remains loyal to local football giants Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT). The 2024-2025 National Football Awards (ABK) Most Valuable Player (MVP) said he still needs to work hard to become a higher quality player to help the Southern Tigers face greater challenges in the future.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Arif expressed his commitment to JDT, acknowledging the significant challenges he faces within the club. “My challenges in Malaysia or in JDT are enormous. But it’s not easy for me to stay in JDT forever and I need to work harder to keep my position,” he stated. Addressing rumors of external offers, he added, “Maybe the supporters or the media like to say there are offers from outside (clubs). But as a player, I know how difficult it is for clubs from outside to find players in Malaysia. I think I will stay at JDT forever.”
Arif shared these sentiments following the ABK 2024-2025 ceremony, w
here he made history by being named MVP for the fourth consecutive time. This achievement places him in a league of his own, surpassing the record of former national striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, who secured the title three times from 2010 to 2012.
The 22-year-old also excelled in three other categories: Best Midfielder, Best Goal of the Malaysia League (M-League) 2024-2025, and Fans XI (Forward). Arif’s remarkable season included scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists, contributing significantly to JDT’s triumphs in the Super League, Charity Shield, and FA Cup. The team is now set to compete in the Malaysia Cup final against Sri Pahang FC at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium this Saturday.
Looking ahead to the final, Arif emphasized his dedication to JDT’s success. “The performance in the final will not only be for the supporters but for everyone including the coaches, players, and my family,” he said. “We all need to prepare for the next match (Malaysia Cup final). God willing, we will give our best.
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