Kuala Lumpur: Former national footballer Reduan Abdullah has expressed his disappointment over reports that several big teams are set to pull out from competing in the Malaysia League (M-League) next season. The former UiTM FC head coach described such development as not only tarnishing the image of the M-League but also a sign of the unhealthy situation of the sport in Malaysia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Reduan voiced concerns that he shares with many supporters who are worried about the withdrawal of prominent teams from next season’s M-League. He urged the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to devise an effective solution to address the situation.

Reports had previously indicated that several major teams, including Perak FC, Sri Pahang FC, and Kedah Darul Aman FC, are considering withdrawing from the upcoming season of the M-League. Reduan emphasized that the potential absence of these teams would have significant repercussions on the development of football in Malaysia.

Reduan warned that if the issue is not taken seriously, the league might see an influx of import and naturalised players, overshadowing local talent. He expressed a desire to revert to a time when the league produced more homegrown talent, underscoring the need for a stronger focus on nurturing local players.