Goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud was released by Lion City Sailors on May 30, 2026, after spending the latter half of the 2025-26 Singapore Premier League season on loan with the Young Lions [1, 2, 3].

The 35-year-old played 16 games during his loan spell with the Young Lions, who finished second from bottom in the eight-team SPL that season [1, 2, 3]. He was sent off in his first match against BG Tampines Rovers but described the experience of returning as a senior player guiding younger teammates as "eye-opening" [1, 2, 3]. "It was a different experience going back to the Young Lions because I was going back as a senior player and it was eye-opening for me because I was back to guide the younger players," Izwan said [1].

On May 31, 2026, the day after his release, Izwan earned his 73rd international cap in a 4-0 friendly win over Mongolia at Jalan Besar Stadium [1, 2, 3]. Singapore is ranked 147th in world football, Mongolia 187th, and China 94th [1, 2, 3].

Izwan is currently preparing for a June 5 friendly against China at the same venue and is focused on the national team ahead of major tournaments. "From the Young Lions till now, there isn’t a long break for us, so I’m still keeping as sharp as possible. My focus now is for the national team, because we are preparing for a big tournament (Asean Championship). After the China game, we’ll have a bit of a break, and when we come back, we are still with the national team… We don’t know what the future holds, so let’s see what’s going to happen in the next one or two months," he said [1].

National coach Gavin Lee acknowledged the uncertainties players face after the season and emphasized providing support. "Obviously the end of season comes with its challenges, where you are not quite sure where or what their next move might be… but we want to create a supportive environment so players can focus and perform," he said [1].

Singapore is preparing to compete in the ASEAN Championship from July 24 to August 26, 2026, and the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers [1, 2, 3]. Izwan remains a key part of the national squad despite his club future being uncertain.