Former Selangor Head Coach, Mehmet Durakovic does not rule out a possible return to the Klang Valley side if he is given a chance by the Football Association of Selangor (FAS) in the future.
Speaking at a press conference today, the former Australian international said it was heartbreaking for him to leave the club which he regarded as his second home during their resurgence in the local football scene now.
He also thanked both Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah and FAS for their assistance during his three-year stay in Selangor.
“I accept FAS’ decision (earlier) to not extend my contract but who knows I might return to this wonderful club which has a great history in Malaysian football besides the fans who for me are arguably the best I have ever seen in my career so far.
“To all the players, I want to say to them good luck under new coach (Zainal Abidin Hassan),” he said.
Durakovic, who played a pivotal role in helping the ‘Red Giants’ squad to claim three consecutive Malaysia Cup titles — 1995, 1996 and 1997 during the club’s glory days, also informed that he had an audience with Sultan Sharafuddin yesterday who hoped he could return to manage the club in the future.
In the meantime, the former A-League side, Melbourne Victory coach revealed that FAS had offered him a new role as the team’s Technical Director but noted that he needed to consider the job which he regarded as a huge responsibility for him.
“Right now, I want to enjoy my holiday here but who knows I might return in the future as a coach,” Durakovic added.
Media reports had earlier stated that FAS gave compensation amounting to RM1.1 million to Durakovic after terminating his contract which should end in 2017, and appointed Zainal Abidin, who is their former player as the new coach for a two-year period.
Under Durakovic’s guidance, Selangor emerged as runners-up of the Super League thrice — 2013, 2014 and 2015, besides helping the team to end a ten-year drought to claim the Malaysia Cup title for the 33rd time, last season. – BERNAMA
