Luis Garcia: 'JDT are like a European club based in Malaysia'

KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta zim (JDT) has risen to become a superpower in Malaysia, capturing the attention of football fans across the globe. Former Liverpool and Barcelona player Luis Garcia recently joined the club, and his role is to help elevate JDT to new heights, much like the legendary "Miracle of Istanbul" team that defied the odds to triumph in 2005.

Garcia, who is at the helm of JDT alongside owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim and former Watford manager Xisco Munoz, is determined to make the club the biggest in Southeast Asia. The team has been unbeaten in a world-record 113 domestic matches, showcasing their incredible talent and commitment to success.

Garcia was drawn to the business side of football after a brief stint working for ESPN and engaging in various ambassadorial roles for Liverpool and Barcelona. After meeting with Tunku Ismail, Garcia quickly understood the club's vision and goals, which include winning the league 12 times in a row and reaching the Asian Champions League quarter-final last year.

The JDT academy is run by Spanish coaches, providing the team with a European-style training environment. Garcia is particularly impressed by the club's dedication to youth development and winning trophies, as well as their plans for commercial deals and fan engagement through the unveiling of JDT+, a platform designed to give global fans behind-the-scenes access and a closer connection to the team.

Garcia expressed his happiness and gratitude at joining the JDT family, stating that the club's mentality is akin to that of a European powerhouse. With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to success, JDT is poised to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of football.