KUALA LUMPUR: Manchester United's swift decision to sign Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon after sacking Erik ten Hag sent a powerful message to fans - the Red Devils are serious about reclaiming their place among Europe's elite.
As Selangor searches for a new coach following Nidzam Jamil's resignation, many are pointing to Bojan Hodak as the ideal candidate to lead the Red Giants back to glory.
Much like Manchester United in the English Premier League, Selangor was once the M-League's undisputed king.
While United have managed to claim some titles in recent times, Selangor haven't tasted victory since winning the Malaysia Cup in 2015
The Croatian tactician is no stranger to Malaysian football. With successes at Kelantan (a treble in 2012), Johor Darul Ta'zim, and KL City, Hodak is not only familiar with the M-League's dynamics but has also achieved remarkable feats.
At KL City, he led the team to three finals on one of the league's smallest budgets, including their memorable Malaysia Cup win in 2021 against JDT. He also steered them to second place in the 2022 AFC Cup and 2023 FA Cup.
After leaving KL City, the 53-year-old moved to Indonesia, where he clinched the Liga 1 title with Persib Bandung in the 2023-24 season.
A sharp strategist with a knack for turning teams around, Hodak could be the spark Selangor desperately needs. However, if Hodak is to succeed, the Selangor management must change its approach.
Fans have voiced frustration over recent squad-building missteps, particularly foreign signings who missed the mark.
There's a growing call for management to align with supporters' ambitions and grant the coach real control over player choices - vital for building a winning squad.
With backing from Selangor chairman Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Hodak could have the authority to make his mark, free from interference.
Hodak knows the M-League inside out and has a proven track record of maximizing the potential of both local and international talent.
Given the reins, he could turn Selangor's fortunes around in ways that Amorim, who will face massive pressure at Old Trafford, might not be able to achieve.
Yet, appointing Hodak alone won't resolve Selangor's issues overnight. The club must adopt a strategy beyond quick fixes.
