Kunanlan Subramaniam, born on September 15, 1986, carved his name in Malaysian football as a dynamic and speedy right-back and winger. Revered for his electrifying pace and relentless determination, Kunanlan’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a football icon is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Beginnings and Breakthrough with Negeri Sembilan
Kunanlan Subramaniam’s professional football journey began with Negeri Sembilan, where he showcased his remarkable talent under the guidance of coach Wan Jamak Wan Hassan. Making his debut during the 2007-08 Malaysia Super League, Kunanlan quickly made headlines. He scored his first professional goal in a thrilling 2-3 away victory against Sarawak.
His time at Negeri Sembilan was decorated with significant triumphs, including winning the Malaysia Cup in 2009 and 2011 and the Malaysia FA Cup in 2010. These early successes solidified Kunanlan’s position as a rising star in Malaysian football.
Kunanlan Subramaniam: The Transition to Selangor FA
In 2013, Kunanlan Subramaniam took a bold step by joining Selangor FA, further enhancing his career. His debut season was nothing short of spectacular. In his first match against his former club Negeri Sembilan, he scored a decisive goal, showcasing his loyalty and prowess on the field.
Kunanlan Subramaniam continued his stellar performance, scoring crucial goals against Terengganu FA and Johor Darul Takzim FC, solidifying his reputation as an impactful player. His adaptability and ability to deliver under pressure made him a favorite among fans and a nightmare for defenders.
A Legacy of Glory with Johor Darul Ta’zim
The defining chapter of Kunanlan Subramaniam’s career began in 2015 when he joined Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT). Over nine incredible years, Kunanlan played more than 190 matches across competitions and amassed a trophy cabinet that most players can only dream of.
His achievements with JDT include:
- 9 Malaysia Super League titles.
- A Malaysia FA Cup title.
- A Malaysia Cup title.
However, the pinnacle of his club career came in 2015 when JDT clinched the AFC Cup. Kunanlan described this achievement as the crowning moment of his career.
International Stardom and Unforgettable Moments
Kunanlan Subramaniam’s impact wasn’t confined to club football. He debuted internationally in 2008 with the Malaysian under-23 team, making an immediate impression in a 1-1 draw against the Maldives.
In 2009, he won a gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games, a milestone that cemented his status as a national hero. His crowning international achievement came in the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, where Malaysia lifted the title for the first time.
Kunanlan also had the unique honor of representing Malaysia XI against global football powerhouses like Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea. These experiences not only showcased his skills on a global stage but also brought pride to Malaysian football.
Retirement and Legacy
After earning 74 international caps, Kunanlan Subramaniam announced his retirement from international football in 2016. His last match, a spirited performance against North Korea during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup qualification, marked the end of an illustrious international career.
Though retired, Kunanlan’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring footballers. His story of perseverance, hard work, and unwavering passion is a testament to the heights that can be achieved with determination and skill.
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