PETALING JAYA: As Dion Cools approaches his 30th birthday in June, the message is clear – he is far from slowing down.
Instead, the national captain is embracing what many consider a defender’s peak years with a renewed focus on staying fit.
“People see the glamour, but the reality is hard work every day, physically and mentally,” said Cools, who is currently plying his trade with Cerezo Osaka in the J.League.
“As I approach 30, the focus is simple: stay fit, stay hungry and keep playing at the highest level possible – for club and country.”
With experience across Europe and Asia, Cools believes those years have shaped both his game and mindset, teaching him resilience and consistency at the top level.
Now, entering a crucial phase of his career, he remains determined to lead Malaysia while continuing to perform at his best abroad.
“Every country I’ve played in has helped me grow – not just as a footballer, but as a person,” he added.
Cools’ journey with Harimau Malaya began five years ago when he made his debut at 25.
Before donning the black and yellow jersey of Malaysia, he was part of the Belgium age-group setups, featuring for the Under-18 and Under-21 teams in the past.
Since 2021, he has earned 38 caps and scored six goals for Malaysia.
He fondly recalled key milestones in his career, including winning promotion with Belgian club Oud-Heverlee Leuven and lifting titles with Belgian giants Club Brugge, Danish club FC Midtjylland and top Thai club Buriram United.
“Learning to get up when I fall has been important, but most meaningful are the friendships I’ve made.
“Even my short time with Czech side FK Jablonec was memorable, they treated me like family, and we still keep in touch.”
