Banned by FIFA, 4 naturalized players unexpectedly returned to Malaysia seeking a resolution

Rodrigo Holgado, Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, and Imanol Machuca reportedly came back to Malaysia aiming to resolve the issue of unauthorized naturalization.

The FIFA penalty against the Malaysian Football Association and the 12-month suspension of 7 naturalized players continues to attract significant attention. Recently, Malaysian media reported that striker Rodrigo Holgado—one of the seven players involved—has returned to Malaysia with hopes of settling the matter:

"An Argentine media outlet stated that Rodrigo Holgado is among four foreign-born national players who traveled to Malaysia to seek a resolution for the FIFA suspension.", NST reported. "The other three are Gabriel Palmero, Facundo Garces, and Imanol Machuca", the publication added.

According to an Argentine journalist on social media, Holgado is believed to have arrived in Malaysia. "Rodrigo Holgado is currently in Malaysia with his agent. The @americadeCali player flew back following FIFA’s sanctions against the national team and six other players. The striker hopes the matter can be resolved as there is a 10-day window to file an appeal.", Nany Flórez stated on X. Reports say many Malaysian football fans have reportedly spotted Holgado and three others in Johor Bahru.

It is known that after FIFA’s penalty, all naturalized Malaysian players have been banned from playing for their clubs. Holgado currently plays for America de Cali in Colombia’s top league. Palmero is with Unionistas in Spain. Defender Garces plays for Alvares in La Liga. Machuca is on loan at Velez Sarsfield.

Sarsfield’s coach Barros Schelotto said he and the whole team were shocked that Machuca faces a penalty: "We are all shocked, including Machuca. He and FAM still have a few days to appeal. Hopefully, Machuca will return soon."

The other three suspended players—Joao Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel—have also stopped playing. All three currently play for Johor Darul Ta'zim (Malaysia).

Regarding the Malaysian Football Association, they recently issued a statement saying they have not yet submitted an official appeal because they have not received the full ruling from FIFA. They also announced a temporary silence on the matter.

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