PETALING JAYA: For 14 years, Ayden Keevan Fernandez’s (pic) father drove him to football training every weekend, never missing a session.
Now, at 19, the former National Football Development Programme ( DP) player is pursuing his dream in Spain, home to some of the world’s finest footballers.
Ayden Keevan is part of UCAM Murcia CF’s reserve set-up, playing at centre-back for the Under-23 side while also covering both fullback positions, thanks to his ability to use either foot.
The club, which compete in Segunda Federacion Group 3, Spain’s fourth tier, recruited him through their international programme for promising overseas players.
After an exchange of emails, Ayden Keevan submitted his application and a highlight reel. The club’s football director reviewed his footage and performance data before assessing his technical and tactical ability, as well as his potential to adapt to Spanish football.
“Receiving the offer was an exciting and encouraging moment for me,” he said.
“I saw UCAM Murcia as a great opportunity to challenge myself in a competitive football environment.”
While the opportunity is a significant step in his development, Ayden Keevan knows there are no guarantees of making it as a professional.
“There are many different pathways to professional football, and no single route guarantees success,” he said.
“However, being part of the Spanish football system is definitely a valuable opportunity, not just for me but for any Malaysian.”
Standing at 1.78m, Ayden Keevan is aware that he needs to make up for his lack of height against bigger opponents. His coaches have urged him to be more physical in aerial duels, prompting him to put in extra work outside team training to become stronger, more aggressive and more vocal and confident in defence.
A family legacy
Football is part of Ayden Keevan’s family history. His grandfather, M. Baskaran, played for the national veterans’ team, while his granduncle, M. Kuppan, represented and coached Malaysia during the country’s glory days.
Carrying that legacy onto the international stage is one of his biggest ambitions.
“It would be an incredible honour to carry on the family legacy, wear the national team’s jersey and contribute to Malaysian football,” he said.
His sights are now set on building a career in one of Europe’s major leagues before eventually earning a place in the Harimau Malaya squad.
“I want to look back on my career knowing that I gave everything I had and hopefully inspire other young Malaysian players to believe that pursuing a football career abroad is possible.”
