KUALA LUMPUR — As the Super League season reaches its halfway point, with just 13 matches remaining, is it wise for any team to hit the panic button with a coaching change?
Currently, Penang FC is at the centre of attention amid speculation over a possible shift in its coaching lineup.
Head coach Akmal Rizal Rakhli was notably absent from the bench during yesterday’s match against Sabah at Bandaraya Stadium.
Instead, assistant coach Mat Saiful Mohamad led the Black Panthers, with technical director Abderrazzak Merzagua serving as acting assistant manager—fueling rumours of an impending coaching change.
Contacted by Scoop earlier, Akmal declined to address the rumours directly.
“I’m not allowed to answer any questions from reporters at the moment. Please wait for instructions from management. Any inquiries should be directed to them,” said Akmal.
The speculation around Akmal’s position stems from Penang’s disappointing league performance, where they have managed just two wins out of 13 matches, against Kelantan and Perak, leaving them in 11th place with only 11 points.
Former Penang player Asmawi Bakiri believes mid-season coaching changes are common, even in Europe, but argues it is unfair to place all the blame for Penang’s struggles on Akmal alone.
Asmawi pointed out that even without Akmal on the bench, Penang endured a heavy 0-4 loss to Sabah, underscoring that the team’s issues go beyond the coach.
“In football, winning is everything. So when a team isn’t securing victories, management is bound to stick to the same approach.
“Without wins and positive results, everyone will feel the pressure. You have to remember that after the Super League, there’s the Malaysia Cup.
“But if you say Penang is not playing well, that wouldn’t be fair. There are many factors contributing to their losses this season,” said Asmawi when contacted by Scoop.
One of the major challenges Penang faces this season is the lack of standout players, along with defensive weaknesses that have led them to concede 24 goals—one of the league’s highest totals, following Negeri Sembilan and Kelantan.
“You tell me, who are the standout players in the Penang team right now? There’s no one who really grabs your attention.
“Look at other teams like KL City and Kedah; even though they’re struggling, they still have key players who can make a difference,” he added.
Asmawi cautioned that Penang’s management should carefully evaluate the situation before making any drastic decisions.
“The issues affecting Penang right now aren’t solely based on Akmal; the players need to work harder as well.
“The management also needs to consider who their opponents will be in the upcoming fixtures.
“Will getting rid of Akmal and bringing in a new coach resolve the situation? All of that needs careful consideration,” he added. — October 26, 2024