Former national football team midfielder Mohamed Arif, known affectionately as Baka, has tragically passed away. The 38-year-old athlete was recently admitted to ADK Hospital's ICU following his return from Hajj.
PSM News learnt that, Mohamed Arif's health deteriorated upon his return to the country, where he battled a fever and subsequent infection.
Mohamed Arif Baka played a pivotal role in Maldives' victorious 2008 SAFF Championship squad. Despite facing challenges with injuries and fitness later in his career, he never formally retired from the sport.
Notably, Mohamed Arif was among the few Maldivian players to compete in a foreign league, having previously played in Myanmar. His career was marked by numerous achievements at the club level.
He leaves behind a legacy that resonates deeply within the football community.