Arif Aiman "I Want to Play Every Game"
The JDT star embraces his new tactical responsibilities and reveals an insatiable hunger to compete following a standout performance against Port FC.
Johor Darul Ta’zim star Arif Aiman Hanapi has shed light on his recent transition into a central attacking role following his Player of the Match display against Port FC in the AFC Champions League Elite 2026/27 League Stage (East Zone).
Traditionally deployed as a winger on the right flank, the dynamic forward has recently been tasked with operating as a number 10. Rather than shying away from the tactical shift, Arif views the positional change as a crucial stepping stone to elevate his game.
"Before this, I played in the right position, but now I'm playing in position number 10. That's a challenge for me. I take it as a challenge for myself to be more successful," Arif explained during the post-match press conference.
He noted that playing centrally and occasionally on the left side allows him to maximize his attacking advantages, giving him the freedom to push forward and create chances without heavy defensive burdens.
Despite JDT's grueling schedule across the Super League, FA Cup, and ACLE, Arif’s drive remains unmatched. The attacker emphasized that regardless of the competition, his singular focus is maintaining his peak condition and being on the pitch for every single match.
"For me, the rest is important, but I want to play every game," he stated. "It doesn't matter whether it's a Super League, Super Cup, FA Cup, or Champions League. What's important for me is to prepare myself to be at the top level."
Unsatisfied with past achievements, Arif maintained that his focus always resets immediately after the final whistle, as he looks forward to helping the Southern Tigers navigate a congested fixture list in the coming month.
Credit Photo : Jayden Seah/SNE-Photo
