KUALA LUMPUR: Even though he was only in charge of Melaka United for four months, E. Elavarasan still managed to guide the team to safety above the relegation zone and avoid the drop, however it has now been revealed that the coach has made the decision not to extend his contract.
Elavarasan confirmed this decision with NSTP Sport, saying that he came to such a decision because he wants a fresh, new challenge while also giving room to Melaka’s new management to chart the course for the team for next season.
“I was brought to Melaka United by Datuk Yusoff Mahadi with the goal of saving the team from relegation to the Premier League and I am very happy to have done so,” said Elavarasan who came in and replaced 40-year-old Protuguese coach Eduardo Almeida in May.
“When I came in and took over midway through the season, Melaka were languished in 10th place with only nine points to show for. We however managed to end the season in seventh spot with 31 points.
“It is a proud achievement and I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to the management, especially Datuk Yusoff, and the players who were very committed throughout my time with the team.”
The former Felda United, Terengganu and PKNS FC coach said that even though he is still undecided as to where he will go next, he is more than ready for a bigger challenge.
“I have yet to make any decision because I am still contracted to Melaka until the end of next month (November). Perhaps only then will I give more serious thought on where I will go next.
“For the time being, I want to focus on getting my Pro A coaching license,” he said.
Elavarasan’s position as Melaka United coach began to become the subject of speculation when it was reported that the team were in discussion with Perak SEDC coach, Abu Bakar Fadzim, however the 47-year-old former Perak, Perlis and Police player decided to stay on with his current team.
Melaka are also reported to be interested in Felda United assistant coach Nizam Jamil, but nothing has been agreed upon for now.