PETALING JAYA: Harimau Malaya winger Arif Aiman Mohd Hanapi (pic) said there is no rivalry between local-born and heritage players in the national squad.
He stressed that mentality is key, and every player shares the same goal under one flag.
“The presence of heritage players has been a big help to the team from time to time,” he said.
Arif also said the players are fully focused on preparing for September’s friendlies against Singapore and Palestine, and declined to comment on Malaysia’s withdrawal from the 2025 CAFA Nations Cup.
“To me, I just focus on what’s ahead. Preparation is important,” he told reporters after being named ambassador for a leading sports brand here yesterday.
The two Tier 1 matches serve as warm-up fixtures ahead of the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers in October.
Malaysia will face Singapore on Sept 4 and Palestine on Sept 8. – BERNAMA
