05-05-2025
'Malaysia is my future': Gallifuoco opens heart on Harimau Malaya
KUALA LUMPUR: Giancarlo Gallifuoco's love for Malaysia isn't born of convenience.
It's a bond forged through genuine connection and deep gratitude.
The 31-year-old centre-back from Sydney has firmly rooted himself in Malaysian football since joining KL City from Melbourne Victory in 2021.
Now, as he begins the naturalisation process to represent Harimau Malaya, Gallifuoco insists this is more than just a career move — it's a personal mission.
"Since I was 15, Kuala Lumpur has been the place I've lived the longest. This has become my second home. I feel ridiculously grateful for this country and this city," said Gallifuoco.
He got his first taste of national pride in 2022 when KL City reached the AFC Cup final, a feat that won over fans across the country.
"I'd walk the streets and hear people say, 'What a game against Viettel.' Even fans from Terengganu, Selangor and JDT told me that. I felt what it must be like to represent Malaysia, and I loved it."
Off the pitch, Gallifuoco is well and truly settled.
His daughter Zoa was born in Malaysia in 2022, another child is on the way, and his family has plans to retire here.
"My daughter speaks with a cute little Malaysian accent. My family wants to move here permanently. We're in this for the long haul," he said.
During a recent league break, Gallifuoco only spent four of eight weeks back in Australia — another sign of where his heart lies.
"If there's any doubt about how much I love Malaysia, that says it all. Malaysia is my home. Malaysia is my future," he declared.
On the field, Gallifuoco has been a rock at the back for KL City, clocking up 114 appearances, four goals and one assist.
He helped the team lift the Malaysia Cup in 2021 and finish runners-up in the 2022 AFC Cup and 2023 FA Cup.
As for his ambitions with the national team, the Australian-born defender isn't making grand promises — just one pledge.
"I won't say I'll keep 50 clean sheets or that I'm the greatest defender. But I'll give 100 per cent in every session and every minute.
"I want to make this country and my family proud."
With his naturalisation process underway, Gallifuoco could soon become a vital figure in Harimau Malaya's backline, bringing leadership, tactical nous and a passion that runs far deeper than most.
