Tunku Ismail Idris Abdul Majid Abu Bakar Iskandar ibni Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ) Discusses Future in Football and Financial Struggles

The owner of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), Tunku Ismail Idris Abdul Majid Abu Bakar Iskandar ibni Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ), recently discussed his future in football on a podcast hosted by YB Khairy Jamaluddin and YB Shahril Hamdan. TMJ highlighted the financial pressures faced by Malaysian league clubs, including JDT, despite having international sponsorships and collaborations. He acknowledged the challenges of running a football club due to high investments and minimal returns.

Expressing concern over the delayed salary payments in clubs like Kedah, Sabah, Kelantan, and Sarawak, TMJ emphasized the heavy financial burden in football, particularly in the local context. Despite JDT’s collaborations with foreign companies, TMJ revealed that he and his father sometimes have to use their own finances to support the club, a situation that he finds disappointing.

However, TMJ remains optimistic about JDT’s current standing and aspirations in the AFC Champions League (ACL). He aims for the club to progress to the quarter-finals, viewing it as a realistic and significant achievement. TMJ emphasized the importance of being pragmatic and understanding the club’s position in the tournament, steering clear of unrealistic expectations.

While TMJ expressed his passion for football, he also hinted at a future exit from the sport, acknowledging the immense financial strain associated with club ownership. Despite his dedication to JDT and love for the sport, TMJ anticipates a time when he will have to step away from football due to the constant financial pressures.

In conclusion, TMJ’s insights shed light on the financial challenges faced by Malaysian football clubs, emphasizing the need for sustainability and strategic planning to ensure long-term success. As JDT continues its journey in the AFC Champions League, TMJ’s pragmatic approach and commitment to the club’s advancement aim to position JDT as a competitive force in the regional football landscape.

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Zora Əhmədov

Zora Əhmədov, our dedicated statistician and lover of small leagues, is the analytical mind behind Asia.futbol's in-depth statistical analyses. Hailing from Azerbaijan, Zora's expertise lies in uncovering the hidden gems and untold stories within the lesser-known football leagues across Asia. With a sharp focus on numbers and an encyclopedic knowledge of the game, Zora's articles provide readers with a fresh perspective on the statistical side of Asian football.

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