Gen Z players lack passion for football? No such thing - Former Harimau Malaya captain

SHAH ALAM – Former Harimau Malaya captain Safiq Rahim has challenged the notion that Gen Z players lack commitment, arguing that their passion for football remains strong.

He believed the sport's enduring beauty was rooted in its emphasis on teamwork and collective responsibility, a dynamic that remained consistent across generations.

"It is a collective responsibility and any generation cannot run away from this responsibility," he told Sinar Daily at the Karangkraf Complex, here.

When asked about the differences between being captain during his era and the current national squad under skipper Dion Cools, Safiq stated that leadership was secondary to collective effort.

"Anyone can be captain, but it takes a team to win a football match.

"At the end of the day, teamwork wins," he said.

Safiq reflected on his own career, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team.

"It was a privilege to be given such responsibilities. I never thought I would get everything I wanted just because I was captain.

"I hope the new generation will do their best for the team, for themselves and for their family," he added.

Addressing the team’s current performance, Safiq offered his full support for coach Peter Cklamovski and the squad.

"For me, any day, any time, any tournament, Harimau Malaya comes first.

"It is mandatory for me to support them. We love our country and we love football as a beautiful game. So we have to support our national squad no matter what," he said.

Malaysia began its recent international window with a 2-1 win over Singapore on Sept 4, followed by a victory over Palestine, who will feature at the Asian Cup next year.

The results extended Malaysia's unbeaten run in 2025, providing further optimism ahead of the AFC 2027 Asian Cup qualifying matches, a double-header against Laos on Oct 9 and 14.