PENANG’S new head coach, Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail, is focused on developing his players’ decision-making skills during challenging moments on the pitch.
In an interview with Buletin Mutiara following his appointment, the former national footballer stressed the need for his players to cultivate a mindset geared towards making critical decisions to enhance their performance.
“In football, while we see players actively moving and kicking the ball, everything is ultimately controlled by their minds.
“As the new head coach of the Panthers, my goal is to instil this mindset, empowering players to make smart, critical decisions during matches,” Wan Rohaimi explained.
After his initial training sessions with the team, Wan Rohaimi expressed confidence in his squad’s potential.
“I believe in these players. They have the capability to deliver strong performances,” he said.
The Kelantan-born coach, 48, succeeds former Penang head coach Akmal Rizal Ahmad Rakhli, following a difficult Super League season.
Wan Rohaimi, who previously played for Kelantan and Terengganu, was introduced as the new head coach by Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi at a recent media conference.
Looking ahead to his debut match against Kuching at City Stadium on Nov 21, Wan Rohaimi shared his optimism.
“I am confident the team can perform well.
“Having faced Kuching multiple times during my tenure with Kuala Lumpur, I am familiar with their approach.
“I also believe that the players have untapped potential, and it is my duty to elevate their morale and on-field performances,” he said.
When asked about handling the pressure of producing positive results, Wan Rohaimi acknowledged that pressure is a part of life.
“Pressure is unavoidable, but I am determined to give my best during my six-month tenure as head coach,” he noted, adding that his focus is on taking it one match at a time.
Penang currently sit in 11th place in the league standings, with 11 points from 13 matches.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian