“Welcome to the team, Facundo Garces,” Harimau Malaya’s official X account said in a posting today.

Garces, who was born in Santa Fe, Argentina, has started training with the national squad.

The 24-year-old plays as a centreback for Alaves, which finished the recently concluded season in 15th place, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

He is expected to make his first appearance for Malaysia in a friendly game against Cape Verde tomorrow, before Harimau Malaya face Vietnam in a key Asian Cup qualifier match on June 10.

Bernama quoted Garces as expressing excitement at representing Malaysia, describing joining Harimau Malaya as an “incredible honour”.

“Since arriving, I’ve felt the warmth, sense of family and genuine support from everyone. If this is just the beginning, I can only imagine how amazing it will be when the whole country stands behind us.

“I’m ready to give my all for Malaysia,” he said.