The Prototype Forward
Muhammad Haqimi Azim bin Rosli represents the new prototype of the Malaysian forward—a rare combination of height, strength, and pace. At 1.84m, the Kuala Lumpur City FC attacker is a physically imposing presence who identifies as a pure number nine but is often deployed as a dynamic winger. His career is defined by this compelling tension: immense, nationally recognized potential, evidenced by his 2022 ‘Best Young Player’ award, versus the intense scrutiny and challenge of translating that promise into consistent senior-level output.
The Story So Far
Haqimi Azim’s journey is characterized by a rapid, linear ascent almost entirely within the Kuala Lumpur City ecosystem. A homegrown talent nurtured in the club’s academy, he was fast-tracked into the senior setup, making his official first-team debut on January 1, 2022. His impact was immediate; he scored his first league goal that September and his first cup goal in the Malaysia Cup quarter-finals in November.
This breakout 2022 season was phenomenal. He was a pivotal member of the Malaysia U-19 squad that won the ASEAN U-19 Championship and, in recognition of his domestic form, was crowned the FAM ‘Best Young Player’.
His meteoric rise continued on the international stage. After progressing through the U19, U22, and U23 ranks, he was called up to the senior Harimau Malaya by coach Kim Pan-gon. In his full international debut on December 24, 2022, Haqimi scored his first senior goal in a 5-0 victory against Laos, cementing his status as one of the nation’s most exciting prospects. Since that high, his career has entered a phase of consolidation, grappling with the challenge of replicating that initial success.
Style of Play & Tactical Analysis
Haqimi Azim’s on-field profile is a fascinating blend of raw physical power and developing technical skill. He identifies as a “pure forward,” a traditional number nine whose game is built on leading the line. However, at Kuala Lumpur City, his coaches have frequently utilized his dynamism and speed on both the left and right wings, creating a tactical flexibility that is both a team asset and a personal development challenge.
His primary strength is his exceptional physical framework. Standing at 1.84m, he possesses the natural attributes of a ‘target man,’ capable of holding up the ball, bringing teammates into play, and posing a significant aerial threat. Despite this size, he is not a static forward; he is described as having notable skill and speed, capable of powerful solo runs and confident dribbling in one-on-one situations.
The most significant area for development is his inconsistent end product. For a player of his attacking instincts, his goal and assist numbers have been modest, drawing criticism from observers. Analysis has pointed to moments of hesitation in the final third and a need to improve his speed of thought under pressure. Furthermore, while he possesses the physical tools, he is still accumulating the senior-level experience required to refine his decision-making and consistency.
Future Outlook
Haqimi Azim is at a critical development crossroads. His career is caught in a classic dilemma: his club values him as a key asset with a long-term contract, yet this has not always translated into the consistent starting minutes he needs. This conflicts with his own ambition to be a starting striker and the national team’s search for a reliable number nine.
He has been proactive about his needs, even stating a willingness to consider a loan for more playing time. The next one to two seasons will be defining. How these competing interests—the player’s need for minutes, the club’s squad management, and the national team’s hopes—are resolved will determine if Haqimi Azim fulfills his immense potential.
The Trophy Case (Honours)
Individual
- FAM Football Awards ‘Best Young Player’: 2022
International
- ASEAN U-19 Boys’ Championship: 2022 (with Malaysia U-19)
- Merlion Cup: 2023 (with Malaysia U-22)
Club (Runners-Up)
- AFC Cup: 2022 (with Kuala Lumpur City FC)
- Malaysia FA Cup: 2023 (with Kuala Lumpur City FC)
The Record (Senior Club Statistics)
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2022 | Kuala Lumpur City FC | 18 | 2 | 0 |
| 2023 | Kuala Lumpur City FC | 24 | 1 | 1 |
| 2024/25 | Kuala Lumpur City FC | 27 | 7 | – |