The contrasting fates of two naturalized Malaysian players as they return to competition

Two Malaysian-born players have taken divergent paths: Facundo Garcés has reappeared in LaLiga with Alavés, while Gabriel Palmero remains unemployed, with his future still uncertain.

The two naturalized Malaysian players, Facundo Garcés and Gabriel Palmero, are experiencing opposite turns in their careers, as one has returned to top-level competition in LaLiga, while the other is still struggling to find a new club.

After nearly five months of suspension related to a FIFA review process, Facundo Garcés officially resumed training and playing for Deportivo Alavés starting January 27, 2026. The central defender born in 1999 from Santa Fe, Argentina, was included by Alavés’ coach in the squad for the away match against Espanyol and came on at the start of the second half, substituting in the 46th minute.

This comeback marks a significant milestone for Garcés, who openly expressed his strong desire to return to the field soon after a long wait for FIFA’s decision. Being given the chance to compete in LaLiga demonstrates that this tall player still holds the trust of Alavés’ coaching staff despite the career interruption.

In contrast to Garcés, another Malaysian-born player, Gabriel Palmero, has yet to secure a new club. The defender of Spanish descent parted ways with CD Tenerife in early November 2025 and remains a free agent.

According to Tenerife’s announcement, Palmero’s contract was terminated on November 7, including both his loan agreement at Unionistas de Salamanca CF and his original contract with the parent club. This has caused the 23-year-old player’s career to stall amid a closing transfer window.

Recently, Palmero’s future was unexpectedly mentioned in Malaysia following a notable statement by coach Aidil Sharin Sahak, who currently leads Kuching City FC. The coach hinted at the possibility of recruiting a Malaysian player currently playing abroad to strengthen the squad for the remainder of the season.

“I do not rule out the possibility of adding a domestic player, but it depends on the budget. That player is currently playing overseas,” Coach Aidil Sharin shared on January 16. However, so far, there has been no official confirmation from Kuching City FC or Gabriel Palmero himself regarding a potential transfer to Liga Malaysia.