Cklamovski coy on Harimau Malaya's new heritage players
KUALA LUMPUR: The status of several new heritage players rumoured to be joining Harimau Malaya ahead of their Asian Cup qualifier against Vietnam on 10 June remains uncertain.
National head coach Peter Cklamovski refused to confirm or deny reports that at least three new heritage players will link up with the squad soon.
The Australian tactician even claimed that some of the foreign names circulating on social media were unfamiliar to him.
"There are a lot of names out there being mentioned by the media, including some I've never even seen before," said Cklamovski at a press conference in Bukit Jalil on Monday.
"There's a lot of speculation, but at this point, you probably know more than I do.
"We're focused on the tough match against Cape Verde tomorrow, which is part of our preparation for the final phase.
"Everyone keeps asking about heritage players and all that. It's great to feel the interest and support from Malaysian football fans — that's what makes Malaysian football special."
One name that has generated buzz online is Rodrigo Holgado, with reports suggesting the 29-year-old striker is on his way to join the national squad.
The development was shared by Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra on social media platform X, where he claimed Holgado had been sent all necessary documents and flight tickets to report for national duty.
"The Malaysian national team have sent all the documents and flight tickets for Rodrigo Holgado to travel and join the Asian squad.
"The America forward is expected to report on Tuesday for his first training camp with the national team," Sierra posted.
Another player making headlines social media is Spanish-born striker Jefte Betancor, who is also believed to be among the new heritage players set to don Harimau Malaya colours.
This follows a viral screenshot allegedly from Betancor's Instagram, showing a Malaysian passport snapped at an airport — further fuelling speculation.
If confirmed, it would be a major coup for Harimau Malaya, as Betancor has an impressive reputation, having finished as top scorer in the Greek Super League for the 2024-25 season.
Meanwhile, Jon Irazabal, another name previously linked to Malaysia, is also reportedly set to join the national team ahead of the crucial clash against Vietnam.
Harimau Malaya will face Cape Verde in a closed-door friendly at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Tuesday.
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