After winning the second straight quadruple of Singapore trophies, Albirex Niigata players have been given the green light by the chairman to move to other clubs.
Because the S-League is yet to hear about funding for next year, the uncertainty could perhaps lead to the break-up of this year’s all-conquering squad.
Albirex chairman Daisuke Korenaga told The Straits Times: “I sent my proposal (for the 2018 season) to the FAS (Football Association of Singapore) several times. This week, I called them every day asking for updates. But there has been no new information.
“I need to tell my players about the situation honestly. I have no choice but to tell them that they are free to look for a new club.”
But Korenaga ruled out the chance that Albirex would depart from Singapore football, ahead of what would be a 15th season here.
“Definitely no,” he said when asked if there was the possibility of exiting the island. “We want to stay in the S-League and we want to be the leaders in terms of quality,” he said.
