Illegal naturalization in Malaysia causes turmoil for La Liga club

The Facundo Garces case linked to the group of illegally naturalized Malaysian players has left Alaves disadvantaged in the transfer window, having to wait for CAS’s ultimate decision.

Alaves' sporting director, Sergio Fernandez, made notable comments regarding the club’s personnel situation amid the ongoing issue related to the group of improperly naturalized Malaysian players. After 23 rounds of the 2025/2026 La Liga season, Alaves sits 14th with 25 points, reflecting their inconsistent form since the start. Although not yet in the relegation zone, the Mendizorroza club still needs reinforcements to secure a safe stay in the league.

During the mid-season transfer window, Alaves planned to strengthen their defense, especially the center-back position. However, this plan was stalled due to Facundo Garces’s case, as the player awaits the final CAS verdict. Apart from newcomer Ville Koski, the club has not signed any other center-backs, having to weigh the risks linked to Garces’s future. CAS’s decision is expected on February 26.

Faced with this uncertainty, Sergio Fernandez admitted the club is almost unable to proactively manage its personnel strategy. “Right now, everything remains very uncertain. What we can do is make the most of Facundo Garces’s presence. It could be just for a week, or it might be a major news story for the club by the end of the season.” According to Fernandez, Alaves can only wait and hope for a positive outcome.

The sporting director also emphasized that the entire CAS process is kept strictly confidential. “This decision is highly confidential; no information is allowed to be disclosed. We can only wait,” he added. This lack of clarity has left Alaves in a passive position, unable to complete their desired transfer plans during a critical phase of the season.

Not only Alaves, but many parties are also focused on the upcoming verdict. The Malaysian national team is accused of fielding seven ineligible naturalized players during the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers and faces the risk of severe sanctions. The AFC awaits the final conclusion to decide Malaysia’s participation status, while FIFA has already fined and annulled three friendlies due to regulatory breaches. Therefore, the CAS ruling will not only affect a La Liga club but could also deliver a major shock to Asian football.