DOHA – In the wake of Jordan’s impressive 4-0 victory against Malaysia in the 2023 Asian Cup Group E opener, 27-year-old centreback Yazan Al-Arab seeks redemption and hopes for a second chance in the Malaysia League (M-League).
Yazan, instrumental in Jordan’s win, expressed remorse for his past actions that led to a lifetime ban by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), Bernama reported.
“Honestly, what happened was very hard for me. After the game against Terengganu FC, the next three months were the hardest moments in my life as I didn’t play with the national team and missed at least five international caps.
“I’m really sad about the ban. I hope, in the future, they (FAM) can give me another chance to play in Malaysia again because I love all Malaysian fans, especially Selangor fans,” he said when met after this morning’s match here.
Despite the ban, he harbours no ill feelings and wishes for Harimau Malaya’s success in upcoming matches against Bahrain and two-time champions South Korea.
Yazan, who now plays for Iraqi club Al Shorta, was handed a lifetime ban from all football activities in Malaysia for kicking and spitting at the referee for showing him a red card during their Malaysia Cup quarter-final, return leg match against Terengganu at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Stadium on September 24 last year.
“I know what I did was wrong. When I saw the video after the game I said that’s unlike me to behave. I hope in the future everything will be okay,” he added.
FAM also previously mentioned that the decision is subject to appeal. – January 16, 2024