JDT's Hidalgo drops social media hint over Harimau Malaya eligibility
KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) winger Manuel Hidalgo has dropped a social media hint suggesting he could soon receive Malaysian citizenship to play for the national team.
Johor Darul Ta zim winger Manuel Hidalgo has hinted that he may soon gain Malaysian citizenship to play for the national team. The Argentina native shared a photo of himself donning JDT's new 2026-2027 home jersey on Instagram. He incorporated the Malaysian flag alongside JDT's official colors and tiger emblem in the caption, writing, "New season... the best is yet to come."
This statement sparked speculation among supporters on social media. Some were thrilled at the possibility of seeing him represent Harimau Malaya, while others questioned whether he had already acquired citizenship. Hidalgo, who has previously played for Sri Pahang, Kedah, and KL City, was eligible for naturalization alongside JDT teammate Bergson da Silva after meeting the five-year requirement.
Bergson has also shown a strong interest in potentially representing Malaysia, recently signaling that he might be granted naturalized status.
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