Malaysian Football League (MFL) has confirmed it has received official notification from the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) regarding the 12-month suspension imposed by FIFA on seven heritage players.
In line with FIFA’s ruling, MFL clarified that three Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) players – João Figueiredo, Jon Irazabal, and Hector Hevel – will not be eligible to feature in any Malaysian League competitions throughout the duration of the suspension.
The decision is a major blow to JDT, who rely heavily on these key figures in their domestic and regional campaigns. Figueiredo has been a consistent goalscorer, Irazabal a defensive anchor, while Hevel’s playmaking has often dictated JDT’s tempo. Their absence leaves head coach Xisco Muñoz with a significant challenge in maintaining the club’s dominance at home and competitiveness on the continental stage.
MFL added that any further actions or adjustments will only be taken once FIFA announces the outcome of FAM’s appeal. The national body has already expressed its intent to challenge the sanctions, insisting it acted transparently throughout the heritage player eligibility process.
Credit Photo : Jayden Seah/SNE-Photo
