KUALA LUMPUR: National football coach Peter Cklamovski has made it clear – he is not going anywhere.
The Australian firmly dismissed rumours about his future, stressing during a press conference in Bukit Jalil yesterday that he will continue leading Harimau Malaya beyond 2025.
Cklamovski, whose contract runs until end of 2026, said his full focus is on preparing the national team for their Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifier against Nepal at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil today.
“I’m staying,” said Cklamovski.
“I’m focused on today. If you get today right, you give yourself a chance to get tomorrow right.
“It’s about the work – preparing the team, improving every session, and making sure we go out there and get the three points.
“That’s it. Finish top, keep pushing, and keep giving belief to the nation.”
While he dreams of taking Malaysia to the “big stages one day,” he stressed that such ambitions must be built step by step.
“I’d be honoured to take this team to major tournaments. That would be a dream for the nation, and I’d be so proud to help deliver it,” said Cklamovaki.
“My heart wants it, my head tells me it’s possible. But for now, respectfully, I focus on the games in the qualifiers.”
Cklamovski believes Malaysia have done everything possible to prepare thoroughly for Nepal, drawing heavily from their extended camp in Kuala Lumpur.
“We’ve had valuable training time together, and every camp has been a step forward,” he said.
The coach expects Nepal to arrive determined and organised, especially after holding Bangladesh to a 2-2 draw in an international friendly at the Bangabandhu Stadium in Dhaka on Nov 13.
“They’re here motivated. They look ready, and they’ll give their best. We respect that. It will be a tough game,” he warned.
“But we’ll play football that makes everyone proud. It’s our last chance in 2025 to stamp our identity on the field.”
With all players fit, Cklamovski said he faces difficult but welcome decisions.
“Every player deserves to start. Everyone impresses me. It will be tough to choose,” he added.
