Sathia: Pan-gon must learn our culture before making changes

PETALING JAYA: It’s probably not a good idea for Kim Pan-gon (pic) of South Korea to start making waves when he starts his job as Malaysia’s new football coach.

That’s the opinion of ex-Malaysian coach and Football Coaches Association of Malaysia (PBJM) president B. Sathianathan who prefers a patient approach.

He says that Pan-gon should understand the Malaysian culture first before bringing in a massive transfer of Korean style into the players’ game.

Pan-gon, who was named as the replacement for Tan Cheng Hoe by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) after Malaysia’s poor showing at the Suzuki Cup in Singapore last year, is expected to start work in mid February.

“He must understand our culture and players. There must be an emotional connection with our boys,” said the outspoken Sathianathan.

“He should not put his mind on everything Korean when coaching because the dynamics of South Korean and Malaysian players are totally different.

“He should motivate the boys to give extra. I also hope to see a difference in our playing system and selection of the right players.”

Sathianathan pointed out that one good example was fitness as South Koreans are known for their work rate and never-say-die attitude, but the same could not be said about the Malaysians.

“Fitness wise, we still have lots to improve. If your body is not meant to run all day, you can’t expect to change that in four to five days before a game. We are not like the Koreans,” said Sathianathan.

“From young, the South Korean school kids undergo physical education every day, which develops their stamina and physique. We only do it once a week.

“Our boys only get full-fledged training as part of the Youth and President Cup teams.

“But now things are changing with the emergence of full-time academies, so we will see a change in years to come.”

Sathianathan said he knew Pan-gon when they did the AFC Professional Diploma course together and summed him up as an ethical person.

“He works hard, and we saw it during the course. Pan-gon knows the game pretty well and is ethical,” he said.

“I believe his experience in Hong Kong will help. He needs help from a local and I’m glad that FAM are looking for an assistant for him.”

Pang-gon started a full-time coaching career as Busan I’Park assistant coach (2005-2008), South China coach (2008-2010), Hong Kong coach (2009-2010), Gyeongnam assistant coach (2011) and again, as the Hong Kong coach from 2012 to 2017.

Sathianathan said Pan-gon can reach out for help, but one should not expect a miracle from him.

“He has many friends in Malaysia, including myself, who can advise and give their assessment on the players and ecosystem here,” he said.

“Some think that he can solve all our problems. He needs time, more say and power to manage the team.

“I hope to see changes within the organisation. And I believe, with steady improvement under him, we should get the results in the next two years,” he added.