Vélez respond to global scandal involving Machuca | OneFootball

After the sanction received by the player—and six other footballers—for alleged document forgery by the Malaysian Federation, Fortín stated that “until further notice,” the midfielder will not see any action. At the same time, they explained that the institution “is not part” of the process, and therefore cannot appeal.

The global scandal that erupted against the Malaysian Federation for alleged document forgery implicated seven footballers, three of them Argentine, who were suspended for 12 months as a consequence. Among them is Imanol Machuca, current Vélez player, about whom the Liniers institution issued a statement regarding the young footballer’s situation and the steps to follow.

For now, Fortín confirmed that “until a notification to the contrary is received,” Machuca “will not be able to take part in the club’s matches”. At the same time, Vélez assured that they cannot intervene in the process, since the club “is not part” of the disciplinary action.

Nevertheless, the club explained that they are “in constant communication” with the player, to provide the necessary follow-up and “support him” throughout the process. Thus, Machuca’s fate will be determined according to the appeal that the Malaysian Federation may file, as well as the personal defense he may present before FIFA.

The sanction was triggered after Malaysia decided to call up Machuca and six other players—including former Colón player Facundo Garcés, and former Almagro and Gimnasia (LP) player Rodrigo Holgado—for a match against Vietnam, corresponding to the third qualifying round for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. There, according to FIFA, Malaysia sent inquiries to football’s governing body regarding call-up criteria and “used manipulated documentation” to be able to field them.

As a result, the seven players were suspended for 12 months and fined 2,000 CHF each. Meanwhile, Malaysia was fined 350,000 CHF. Now, the appeal period is 10 days, while Machuca’s camp claims to have all their paperwork in order. However, for now he will have to wait and follow the process until it is final, but without playing for Vélez.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.