The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has confirmed that it has summoned Argentina-born Imanol Machuca and Rodrigo Holgado, Brazilian Joao figureiredo and Spanish-born Jon Irazabal to play for Malaysia and will immediately start training.
They will, along with the Argentine defender facundo Garces, become the five new naturalized players wearing the Harimau Malaya shirt (the nickname of the Malaysian team).
"They have shown good form and are quality players," FAM said in a statement. "They are ready to strengthen the national team and help realize the dreams of all Malaysian people," FAM added.
Machuca, 25, a striker for Velez Sarsfield in Argentina, said this was a proud moment to wear the Malaysian national team jersey.
"It is an honor to represent Malaysia. I felt this was something special. I will give my all to the team, Machuca said.
Holgado, 30, who plays for America de Cali in Colombia, agreed with his compatriot's point of view.
"Since I arrived in Malaysia, I have loved the atmosphere and this country. Now I understand the true meaning of playing for Malaysia. I am ready to give my all, Holgado emphasized.
figureiredo, a Istanbul Basaksehir player in Turkey, has similar motivation.
He said: For me personally, this season is very meaningful to me. Now representing Malaysia and sharing the dream with everyone, striving to go further with the team in the Asian arena and around the world, it is truly an honor.
I really hope to receive support and love from fans. This is something unique and extraordinary.
Irazabal, born in Bilbao and playing for Sabah FK in Azerbaijan, said: "I chose Malaysia because I really believe this is where I fulfill my national service. I have begun to feel the specialness and uniqueness of representing the Malaysian team."
Peter Cklamovski's Malaysia team is aiming for a breakthrough against Vietnam, an opponent that Malaysia has not beaten since the 2014 AFF Cup.
The match between Malaysia and Vietnam will take place on the evening of June 10 at Buki Jalil Stadium.
