Kelantan Red Warrior FC (KRWFC) are facing a growing health concern after three players tested positive for influenza, while another eight players have developed symptoms including fever and body aches.
The club confirmed that the players were screened by its medical team as it continues to manage the outbreak and minimise the risk of further transmission within the squad.
A total of 17 other players underwent screening, with eight found to be showing symptoms. All affected players are now being closely monitored by KRWFC’s management and medical staff.
The situation began developing before KRWFC’s recent Unifi Liga Super Malaysia 2026/27 fixture against Johor Darul Ta’zim, with several players reportedly showing signs of illness before the match.
Despite concerns over their physical condition, some of the affected players took part in the game at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri.
KRWFC nevertheless displayed considerable fighting spirit throughout the 90 minutes against the Malaysian champions.
The club’s response highlights the difficult balance between maintaining competitive commitments and protecting player welfare during a demanding period of the season.
Following the positive test results, KRWFC have taken immediate preventive measures.
The three confirmed cases have been isolated from the rest of the squad to reduce the possibility of further infection.
The club’s medical team has also been instructed to conduct continuous health monitoring of the players, with management keeping a close watch on the condition of those currently experiencing symptoms.
These measures are particularly important given the highly contagious nature of influenza and the potential for illnesses to spread quickly through a professional football squad.
The outbreak comes at a difficult time for KRWFC. The Kelantan side are navigating a packed Malaysia League schedule running through to mid-September, meaning the club must carefully manage player health, recovery and squad availability alongside its competitive commitments.
Any wider spread could significantly affect the team’s ability to field its strongest squad for upcoming fixtures.
The club is therefore prioritising prevention and recovery while awaiting further updates from its medical staff.
KRWFC have also submitted a medical report to the Malaysian Football League (MFL) as an official update on the health situation affecting the squad.
Credit Photo : KRWFC
