Would have coached New Radiant even in second division: Suzain

New Radiant coach Ali Suzain has said that he would have continued with the club even if it had to play in the second division.

After a seven-year absence from Maldivian football, New Radiant returned to competition this season under Suzain, a former Victory Sports Club legend who had long been one of the club’s fiercest rivals, both as a player and as a coach.

Suzain said he initially accepted the role with confidence that New Radiant would compete in the first division this year. The club was awarded a place in the first division after Super United Sports (SUS) withdrew, with New Radiant judged the stronger of the two losing teams from the semi finals of the second division.

“Let’s be honest, there were a lot of positives that New Radiant would play in the first division this season. Based on that, I made my decision,” he said.

However, Suzain added that he was prepared to guide the club regardless of its division.

“Even if the team has to play in the second division, it’s not a challenge I won’t take. I’m ready for it. If you work in football, you have to take that challenge,” he said.

“I’m starting my 40th season at Galolhu Stadium. Even if I had to work with a second division club, it would not be a problem.”

Suzain reflected on his career, describing himself as part of a generation that took defeats to heart.

“We were the type who would go home and cry if the team lost. For us, New Radiant were the ultimate rivals. Victory was the enemy for them, and they were the enemy for us,” he said.

“I’ve felt that. But now it’s different.”

“When I do my own work, I’m focused on winning. God willing, that’s what I’m here to achieve. If a big team like New Radiant makes an offer, no Maldivian coach will say no. Even foreign coaches would take it.”

Valencia became the first club to offer Maldivian players a salary in the 1992 season. That year, Suzain was also recruited to Valencia in a similar fashion.

New Radiant are set to face rivals Valencia in the Dhivehi Premier League on Wednesday evening.