Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ), Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) owner has proposed the naturalisation of prolific striker Bergson Da Silva and winger Manuel Hidalgo to bolster the Malaysian national football team.
With the Harimau Malaya facing a daunting task to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup Finals, TMJ believes the duo could provide a much-needed boost.
TMJ highlighted that the inclusion of Bergson, a 33-year-old Brazilian goal-scoring machine, could serve as a short-term solution for Malaysia’s attacking challenges. Da Silva, who has netted over 120 goals for JDT since his arrival in 2021, will become eligible for naturalisation in 2026 after completing five years in Malaysia.
Manuel Hidalgo, a 25-year-old Argentine winger currently on loan at Sri Pahang FC, was also touted as a long-term prospect for the Harimau Malaya squad. Hidalgo, who began his Malaysian football journey in 2021, has shown consistency and flair, making him a valuable addition to the national team.
“The system/philosophy suits the existing players. Be more compact, attack and defend as a unit. Discipline is the key, Insya-Allah, can. Bergson can be naturalised as a short-term measure, and Hidalgo too for the long term. With the existing players and JDT players ready, the team can improve,” TMJ posted on X.
TMJ also revealed that the incoming head coach and sporting director are actively compiling data on Malaysian players, both domestic and abroad. He emphasized the importance of a development framework to ensure long-term success for the national team.
“It’s not going to be easy. It needs time but has to start now, including frameworks for the future,” TMJ added, urging patience as the team undergoes restructuring.
Malaysia was recently drawn into Group F for the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers, alongside Vietnam, Nepal, and Laos. Only the group winner will advance to the Finals in Saudi Arabia, making the road to qualification particularly challenging.
TMJ’s comments come as the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) prepares to unveil a revamped structure for the national team. This includes appointing a new head coach and sporting director to steer the team forward.
Bergson Da Silva’s clinical finishing and consistent goal-scoring record have cemented his reputation as one of the best strikers in Malaysian football. His potential naturalisation could address Malaysia’s need for a reliable forward on the international stage.
Hidalgo, on the other hand, brings creativity and versatility, attributes that could add dynamism to the team’s attacking play. At just 25, he represents a long-term investment for the Harimau Malaya squad.
Credit Photo : JST
