KUALA LUMPUR – K. Nanthakumar, the head coach of Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC), has stated that the decision to keep him or let him go is up to the club as they prepare for the upcoming Super League season.
His comments come in light of reports indicating that NSFC plans to undergo significant restructuring to build a stronger team, which may involve incorporating several national players and talents from Japan.
Additionally, it appears that the club is close to being acquired by a corporate entity and has suggested a new coaching staff, raising questions about Nanthakumar’s position with the team.
Speaking to Scoop, Nanthakumar, a former defensive midfielder who represented Harimau Malaya 36 times from 2002 to 2010, understands that fans are unhappy with the team’s performance in the Super League.
Currently, Negeri Sembilan is in 12th place out of 13 teams, having earned only 13 points from 22 matches, which includes three wins and four draws. They have two matches left in their league season, facing Kelantan Darul Naim FC on April 13 and Kuching City FC on April 20.
“It’s up to the NSFC management to decide whether to keep me or not for next season. So far, there have been no further discussions or decisions made. I will accept whatever decision is made.
“There were no KPIs set when I took the job, but I promised to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to me to the best of my ability and to help the team.
“This is not the position we expected to be in – being second from bottom in the league. I understand that fans are not happy with our performance this season,” said the Perak-born coach when contacted.
There has been some speculation about former Selangor FC head coach Nidzam Jamil, who is rumored to be a potential candidate for the head coach position at Hobin Jang Hobin for the upcoming season.
However, the club’s management has not yet made any official announcements regarding this.
At the same time, a report from a Japanese news outlet mentioned that the club’s recent signing, former Japanese international Takumi Sasaki, has expressed his interest in playing for a team in the Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE).
Nanthakumar took over as head coach of NSFC in August of last year, succeeding Azzmi Ab Aziz. – April 10, 2025