GEORGE TOWN – Penang FC technical director Merzagua Abderrazak is disappointed with the actions of a small group of supporters who continue to hurl abusive language and bully the club’s PFC III (U20) and PFC IV (U18) players.
Merzagua said this trend is concerning and could potentially weaken the morale and confidence of the players if left unchecked.
“These young players were selected based on their potential. Although they have limited experience and come from underprivileged backgrounds, they are working hard to improve their football skills.
“Our role here is to support and develop these young players, helping them grow both on and off the field. We are committed to nurturing their talent and providing them with the resources they need to succeed,” he said in a message to Penang FC supporters on the Penang Football Club Facebook page today.
He said the negative and hurtful behaviour of some supporters is not only disappointing but also counterproductive.
The former Penang FC player emphasised that as supporters, they should provide constructive feedback, not excessive criticism.
He said encouragement from supporters would help the players develop and succeed, while negative comments and bullying would create a toxic atmosphere that affects their performance and wellbeing.
“We urge everyone to consider the impact of their words and actions. Let us come together to create a positive support environment for these young players, ensuring they can grow and reach their full potential.
“By working together, we can help them build a lasting passion for the sport of football,” he said.
The Panthers’ U20 and U18 squads have often been targeted by supporters, especially on social media, due to their inconsistent performance.
The latest incident occurred after Penang FC IV lost 2-3 to MSC Touchtronics FC in the final match of the Youth Cup season at Stadium Bandaraya last Saturday. – August 19, 2024