Assistant head coach Akmal Rizal Ahmad Rakhli has urged the management of Kelantan The Real Warriors FC to resolve the club’s ongoing salary issues as soon as possible, stressing that the situation is affecting the players’ morale during a crucial period of the season.
The appeal came after Kelantan TRW’s recent match against Terengganu FC in the Liga Super Malaysia at MPS Stadium, Selayang on March 6.
Speaking to Astro Arena journalist Zulhelmi Zainal Azam after the match, Akmal Rizal made a heartfelt plea to the club’s management to address the financial problems affecting the squad.
“I appeal to the management, please resolve the issues that are happening now. The players are competing during the month of Ramadan and we have six matches to play,” he said.
— Zulhelmi Zainal Azam (@zulhelmizainal1) March 7, 2026
The former Malaysian international highlighted that the team has been traveling frequently, including trips to Kuala Lumpur, while also balancing preparations during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to Akmal Rizal, the ongoing salary delays are beginning to take a mental toll on the players as they attempt to remain focused on football commitments.
He explained that resolving the issue would not only help restore confidence within the squad but also ease concerns as players prepare for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.
“Recently we had to prepare for Ramadan, and soon the players will be preparing for Hari Raya while still needing to focus on football.
I believe these matters are affecting the players mentally,” he added.
Reports indicate that Kelantan TRW players are currently facing two months of unpaid wages, a situation that has drawn attention within Malaysian football circles.
The issue was also highlighted recently by the club’s goalkeeper Azfar Arif Sukri, who shared concerns about the salary arrears through his social media platforms.
Akmal Rizal hopes the matter can be resolved swiftly so that the players can regain their focus ahead of upcoming league fixtures, including their next clash against Penang FC.
