CLB Argentina cannot save Malaysia’s naturalized key player

Velez Sarsfield confirmed they cannot interfere with the 12-month FIFA suspension imposed on Malaysian naturalized midfielder Imanol Machuca, despite him being a crucial player for the Argentine team.

The issue originated when the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) was accused of using forged documents to legitimize the nationality of seven players, including Machuca. These players were called up for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifying match against Vietnam. According to FIFA, FAM “used manipulated documents” to include them in the squad.

As a result, the seven players received 12-month suspensions, each fined 2,000 CHF (about 2,500 USD), while FAM was fined 350,000 CHF. Machuca, along with Facundo Garcés and Rodrigo Holgado, are three Argentine-born players on this list.

Velez promptly responded after receiving notice from the Argentine Football Association (AFA). “On September 27, Velez Sarsfield club received notification from AFA regarding FIFA’s decision, which suspended player Imanol Machuca for 12 months. Therefore, until further notice, the player will not be able to participate in any club matches”, the official statement read.

The Argentine club also emphasized that they have no right to appeal or interfere in the disciplinary process: “We stress that Velez is not involved in FIFA’s disciplinary proceedings, and thus has no authority to intervene or appeal”.

Although unable to change the penalty, Velez expressed support for the 25-year-old player. “We maintain regular contact with Machuca to monitor the situation and assist him throughout this process”, the club representative affirmed. This shows the club’s intention to stand by Machuca during this turbulent period, despite being unable to “rescue” him from FIFA’s ruling.

For Machuca, this punishment is a major shock. He is one of Velez’s key players, having played 23 matches this season and contributing significantly to the double titles of the Supercopa International and Supercopa Argentina last season. His future now depends on FAM’s ability to appeal as well as his personal defense before FIFA.

However, while awaiting the outcome, Machuca certainly cannot play for Velez, causing a significant loss for the Argentine club during the remainder of the season. The scandal not only affects the player’s career but also brings international criticism to FAM, becoming one of the biggest shocks in Asian football this year.

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