In an Instagram story, former world No 1 Chong Wei urged Selangor FC winger Faisal to stay positive despite the setback, adding that “everything happens for a reason”.

Faisal revealed yesterday that he had contemplated ending his football career and was prepared to forgo his lucrative salary as he feared for his safety.

“You will be back even stronger,” Chong Wei said.

“’Sabar’ (be patient) and believe. Focus on your recovery and we await your return, Faisal.”

At a press conference yesterday, Faisal, who suffered fourth-degree burns on several parts of his body, said his life changed drastically following the acid attack.

Making his first public appearance since being splashed with acid by an unknown assailant at a shopping mall here, the 26-year-old said he could not do many things on his own and needed help from his family, especially his wife, for basic activities like eating and going to the bathroom.

The incident garnered international attention, with German football giants Borussia Dortmund expressing solidarity with Faisal.

Manchester United players also told the Harimau Malaya star to “stay strong” and “keep fighting”.

Police are investigating whether the acid attack on the Penang-born player is linked to crimes committed against three other footballers, all of which happened in the span of one month.

Faisal, whose equaliser against South Korea was voted as the best goal of the 2023 Asian Cup, could be back in action as early as August.