KUALA LUMPUR — Five of Malaysia’s finest footballers have been selected for the Asean All-Stars squad to take on English Premier League giants Manchester United in a friendly at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil, on May 28.
The squad includes Terengganu FC right-back Muhammad Azam Azmi Murad, Penang FC winger Muhammad Adib Abdul Ra’op, Perak FC goalkeeper Muhammad Haziq Nadzli, Kuala Lumpur City FC defender Declan Lambert, and Sri Pahang striker Sergio Aguero.
The match, part of Manchester United’s pre-season tour, is expected to attract tens of thousands of fans and showcase the very best of Southeast Asian football talent.
Azam, known for his pace and attacking runs, said he was honoured to wear the national colours.
“Wearing the national colours in this All-Stars side is a proud moment. I aim to give my all and show what Malaysian football can achieve,” he said in a statement released by organisers ShekhinahPR.
Adib, a standout winger for Penang FC, described the fixture as a unique chance to test themselves against world-class opposition.
“This is more than just a match; it’s a chance for all of us to demonstrate our skill and heart on the international stage,” he said.
Haziq, Perak’s dependable goalkeeper, welcomed the challenge of facing some of the world’s top attackers.
“Standing between the posts against a team like Manchester United is a challenge I’ve dreamt of. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to keep our side in the game,” he said.
Lambert, who has been a Malaysian international since 2022, will marshal the defence with his leadership and experience.
“I’m honoured to lead this defence alongside my national teammates. Together, we’ll show the spirit of Malaysian football,” said the 25-year-old.
Aguero, whose instinctive finishing and sharp positioning have been key in the Super League, called the opportunity “tremendous”.
“Joining the Asean All-Stars is a tremendous opportunity. I’m proud to stand alongside my fellow Malaysians and showcase our talent on such a grand stage,” he said.
The Asean All-Stars will be coached by South Korean Kim Sang-sik, who recently guided Vietnam to the 2024 Asean Championship title. — May 23, 2025