Malaysia is about to welcome a new naturalized star ready to face Vietnam

Argentine footballer Manuel Hidalgo is nearing the completion of his Malaysian naturalization and could make his debut for Malaysia in the Asian Cup qualifying match versus Vietnam late March.

The Argentine winger Manuel Hidalgo, currently playing for Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), is very close to becoming a Malaysian citizen. If all procedures are completed on schedule, he might wear the Malaysian national jersey for the first time during the international fixtures at the end of March 2026, when Malaysia is expected to face Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.

Hidalgo joined Malaysian football in 2021 with Sri Pahang FC before transferring to JDT, quickly establishing his high level. Over five years of play, the 1999-born player has impressed with his speed, tricky skills, and strong ability to create breakthroughs on the right wing.

He is one of the key players helping JDT maintain dominance in the Malaysian league, especially with the 2025 FA Cup victory after a 5-0 win over Sabah FC, where Hidalgo was named “Man of the Match.”

According to regulations, foreign players who have played in Malaysia for five years or more can apply for citizenship and become local players. Along with Bergson da Silva and Giancarlo Gallifuoco, Hidalgo is a strong candidate for the Malaysia Football Association’s (FAM) naturalization program. After the latest match, he confirmed: “I am waiting until 2026 when I reach five years in Malaysia. Then, I will become a local player, hold a Malaysian passport, and be ready to contribute to the national team.”

Head coach Peter Cklamovski is reportedly very interested in adding Hidalgo to the Harimau Malaya squad, especially as the team needs more experienced and creative players on the wings. If naturalized before March 2026, the Argentine player is highly likely to be called up for the crucial match against Vietnam, Malaysia’s longstanding rival in Southeast Asia.

Hidalgo’s arrival promises to bring fresh energy to Malaysia, while also setting up an exciting showdown with Vietnamese defenders as both teams aim to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup finals.