Malaysian player makes a stormy statement after receiving a one-year FIFA suspension

Amid the turmoil caused by FIFA’s sanction, naturalized defender Gabriel Palmero asserts he will not give up and is determined to pursue every effort to appeal in order to save his newly blossoming career.

On September 26, FIFA issued a severe penalty against the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and seven players accused of using forged documents during registration for the 2025 Asian Cup qualifiers. Among them is Gabriel Palmero - a Spanish-born defender, born in 2002, currently playing for Unionistas de Salamanca (Spain). He, along with players Facundo Garcés, Rodrigo Holgado, Imanol Machuca, João Figueiredo, Jon Irazábal, and Héctor Hevel, were banned from all football-related activities for 12 months.

FIFA stated that FAM submitted falsified documents during the approval process of the player list for the Asian Cup qualifier match between Malaysia and Vietnam on June 10. Along with the ban, each player must pay a fine of 2,000 Swiss francs (about 66 million VND), while FAM must pay 350,000 francs (equivalent to 1.85 million RM).

Since then, Palmero’s career has fallen into crisis. Unionistas de Salamanca, a club competing in Spain’s third division, has suspended all his activities. Unable to train or play, the 23-year-old player had to return to Malaysia to cooperate with FAM in completing the appeal documents. However, FIFA has yet to disclose the full basis of the verdict, causing delays in the process.

On his personal page, Palmero sent a brief message in Spanish: “Lucharla hasta el final” - meaning “Fight until the end.” This phrase reflects his steadfast spirit and hope amid an uncertain future. The post quickly spread among Malaysian fans, sparking mixed emotions. Some viewed it as a commendable declaration of resilience, while others believed Palmero was trying to hide the anxiety and immense pressure he is enduring.

Sports channel Astro Arena commented: “As of noon on October 6, FAM has less than a day left to submit an appeal to FIFA. Gabriel Palmero is probably worried, not knowing where things will lead.”

Nevertheless, the young player remains firm in his belief. “I will not give up. This is the toughest challenge, but I believe justice will prevail. I want to return to the field and prove my worth,” Palmero shared with Metro.

Before the incident, Palmero was given a chance by coach Peter Cklamovski to play in the 4-0 victory over Vietnam in June 2025. Although he only played the last 10 minutes, he impressed with his ability to transition smoothly between offense and defense. Many Malaysian experts believe he will become a key pillar of the national team.

Now, instead of progressing, Palmero must fight for his very existence in professional football. FIFA’s review of FAM’s appeal is expected to take several more weeks, and the final outcome will determine whether the 23-year-old can return to the pitch in 2026.

Related article

BREAKING: Malaysia issues a decision, Vietnam’s national team still waiting The Malaysian Football Association has decided not to appeal to FIFA yet and will wait until all documents are complete, even though it is the last day. See more