KUALA LUMPUR: As a result of mismanagement, Melaka United players are the biggest losers in the Malaysia Cup which is set to kick off on Oct 25.
They are out of the prestigious competition without even kicking a ball.
Not only will the Melaka players miss out on the Malaysia Cup, they are worried they won't be able to secure playing contracts for next season.
It was announced recently that Melaka United won't be allowed to enter their team for the Malaysia Cup due to non-payment of salaries to their players.
And the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia's suggestion that Melaka players be allowed to join other teams on loan for the Malaysia Cup was rejected by the Malaysian Football League (MFL).
That is because there are only two transfer windows in the M-League, and it is against the norm just to open a transfer window for one team.
While the MFL have always helped stricken clubs, the league administrators are in a bind over the Melaka situation.
"There cannot be a window opened for Melaka players because they are still competing in the Super League," said MFL chief executive officer Stuart Ramalingam.
"The Malaysia Cup format also does not permit additional players on the squad."
It is learnt that Melaka could also withdraw from the Super League next season due to their debts.
"If there is any withdrawal, whatever it is, we've to ensure the structure of our league is accepted well," said Stuart.
It is learnt that apart from Melaka, UiTM FC, PJ City and Sarawak United are also not certain of playing in next season's M-League as they are facing a challenging time.
Stuart, however, said he has not received any official notice of withdrawal from the M-League.