PETALING JAYA: Negri Sembilan have reinforced their commitment to youth development by sending three Under-21 players and coach Norhafiz Zamani Misbah to Japan for a month-long training and trial stint with J3 League side Gainare Tottori.
The players — Airiel Zafran Mohd Azrul, 20, Aqil Faris Shalahudin, 19, and Adam Haris Hamizon, 21, — departed in late February and will initially undergo evaluation within Gainare’s academy structure.
Should they meet the required standards, they will earn the chance to train with the club’s senior first team.
In preparation for the attachment, Negri have arranged a month of basic Japanese language classes to help the players adapt to their new environment.
Negri chief executive officer Faliq Firdaus described the initiative as part of a broader long-term blueprint to strengthen the club’s foundations.
“We have high hopes for our local talent, but success requires sacrifice in every aspect,” said Faliq.
“The club provide the platform and the opportunity, but the players must remain resilient, disciplined and willing to work hard to raise their standards.”
As for Norhafiz, he will be embedded within Gainares first-team coaching set-up to gain deeper insight into Japanese professional training methodologies, tactical systems and overall team management.
Faliq said investing in coaching development is equally critical.
“We recognise there is a shortage of top-tier local coaches. Sending Norhafiz is a strategic investment for the future.
‘‘We hope the exposure he gains in Japan will prepare him to take on bigger responsibilities with the club in the years to come,” he said.
The programme also aligns with Negri’s preparations for this year’s Malaysia Games (Sukma), while opening doors for players to potentially secure J-League contracts if they impress.
Among the club’s key strategic goals are the establishment of an A1 Semi-Pro League team next season to accelerate the maturity of young players and a gradual reduction in reliance on foreign signings.
