Malaysian naturalized player violates FIFA disciplinary sanctions

The Malaysian national team naturalized player, Imanol Machuca, caused a stir when he showed up at his old club's training during the period he was under a FIFA-imposed suspension.

According to Sabado Velez, Imanol Machuca, one of the seven naturalized players sanctioned by FIFA, was spotted participating in a practice match with his former club San Lorenzo. This incident immediately raised serious doubts about whether Machuca fully complied with the 12-month suspension imposed by FIFA.

Previously, Machuca along with six other naturalized players of the Malaysian national team were penalized by FIFA for falsifying documents. In addition to a 12-month ban from all football activities, all seven players were fined 2,000 Swiss francs each.

Not only banned from playing, this group of seven illegally naturalized players was also suspended from all football-related activities. According to the interpretation of FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee decision, the sanction extends beyond official match bans. The prohibition also includes all football activities such as training with the team, using club facilities, and being present in the technical area.

Therefore, Machuca’s presence at San Lorenzo’s training center is considered a potential violation of the terms of FIFA’s sanction. Reports indicate that Machuca was there mainly for sentimental reasons, as San Lorenzo is the club linked to the early stages of his career. However, this action is still regarded as a serious breach of the suspension rules he is currently serving.

Some sources in Argentina believe that appearing at the club’s premises or engaging in any activity related to the team could be seen as disrespecting FIFA’s ruling. If Machuca is found guilty of violating the suspension, FIFA has the authority to extend the ban period. Additionally, the organization may impose further fines and take disciplinary measures against clubs that allow such breaches to occur.

Currently, Machuca remains under contract with Fortaleza and is playing on loan at Velez Sarsfield. However, Velez is reportedly unlikely to renew the loan agreement when it expires at the end of December 2025 and will not activate the option to buy the player outright. This means the 25-year-old midfielder will not continue with Velez for the 2026 season and must return to Fortaleza.

Velez’s decision comes amid Machuca still serving a 12-month suspension from FIFA. Sabado Velez reported that it is almost certain the player born in 2000 will not remain at Velez for the 2026 season, with the loan deal ending on December 31 and him having to go back to Fortaleza.

Meanwhile, the Football Association of Malaysia has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport to defend the rights of all seven players, aiming to avoid forfeiting two matches in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against Nepal and Vietnam respectively.