PETALING JAYA: After a breakthrough season on the flanks for Kuching City, Ahmad Danial Asri had every reason to stay put.
The Cats had embraced him, given him a platform, and ridden his energy all the way to the Malaysia Cup final.
But the 26-year-old has chosen a different path, one that keeps him in Borneo, but under a different banner.
Danial has signed with Brunei for the upcoming Super League season, a move that caught many off guard, not least Kuching coach Aidil Sharin, who had publicly indicated the former Selangor winger would be staying on.
“It was not an easy decision because Kuching City helped me grow significantly in various aspects, and I appreciate the opportunity and trust from the management, coaches, teammates, and fans,” said Danial.
“But I feel this is a good opportunity for me to grow as a player. Brunei also have an exciting project for next season. I cannot afford to get complacent.”
Since departing Selangor, Danial has steadily grown into one of the more reliable wide players in the league and a key figure in Kuching’s unlikely run to the Malaysia Cup final last season.
He finished the campaign with five goals and four assists from 32 appearances across all competitions.
“I need a new challenge to further improve my performance,” he said.
“I’m a flexible player, so I can play in any attacking position but I also want to further develop my abilities in attacking midfield, as well as become a better second striker.”
With Danial’s departure now confirmed, Kuching will need to move quickly in the transfer market and it is learnt that they could turn to Johor Darul Ta’zim winger Safawi Rasid on loan.
