Market Value of Seven Heritage Players Plummets Amidst Document Forgery Scandal

KUALA LUMPUR, El Sky News – The professional careers and market standing of seven Harimau Malaya heritage players have taken a devastating hit following a severe ruling by FIFA. According to the latest data from the international football valuation site, Transfermarkt, the market values of all seven players involved have effectively dropped to zero.

This unprecedented collapse in commercial value follows a 12-month suspension and fines imposed by world football’s governing body for violating Article 22 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding the falsification of documents for citizenship purposes.

Financial and Career Impact

Among those most affected is winger Imanol Machuca, whose previous market valuation of approximately US$3 million (RM11.98 million) has completely evaporated. Similarly, Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) striker Joao Figueiredo saw his valuation of US$2.3 million (RM9.58 million) wiped out instantly.

Other players facing a total loss of market value include:

• Facundo Garces: Formerly valued at US$2.3 million.
• Jon Irazabal: Experienced a loss of approximately US$707,000.
• Rodrigo Holgado: Saw a decline of US$530,000.
• Hector Hevel: Valuation dropped by US$470,000.
• Gabriel Palmero: Previously valued at US$58,000.

Club Consequences

The fallout from the suspension has forced several clubs to take immediate action. Rodrigo Holgado’s contract with Colombian side America de Cali was terminated, while Gabriel Palmero was released by Spanish club CD Tenerife. Meanwhile, Velez Sarsfield declined to extend Imanol Machuca’s loan, returning him to his parent club in Brazil, Fortaleza EC.

In contrast, three players based in Malaysia—Hector Hevel, Joao Figueiredo, and Jon Irazabal—currently remain with JDT as the situation develops.

Legal Recourse by FAM

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has also been penalized with a RM1.8 million fine. In response, the national governing body has initiated an appeal process, taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in a final attempt to challenge FIFA’s decision.

The scandal serves as a stark reminder of the stringent regulations surrounding player eligibility and the severe consequences for administrative irregularities in international football.