PETALING JAYA: Sergio Aguero (pic) is all set for a match against Manchester United at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Wednesday.
But it’s not that Aguero of the Red Devils’ noisy neighbours who scored the last-minute goal that helped City pip United to the English Premier League title on the last day of the season in 2012.
It’s only Malaysia’s naturalised midfielder, who’s gearing up with the Asean All-Stars to take on United in the Maybank Challenge Cup.
And while he may not be a Premier League icon, Aguero’s still got the heart, hustle and history with Malaysia to give this showdown some serious spice.
The 31-year-old Argentinian-turned-Malaysian has called Malaysia home since 2017.
In three days, he’ll go from Pahang’s midfield maestro to national representative in a match that has the country buzzing.
While he won’t be haunting United with stoppage-time winners, he will be hoping to pull the strings in the middle and help to unlock their defence.
“It’s an incredible honour to be selected for such a historic match,” said Aguero.
“Playing against one of the biggest clubs in the world, alongside some of the region’s best players, is truly a dream come true.
“To represent Malaysia, to carry the flag in front of home fans, that’s what makes it really special. This will be one of the best experiences of my career.”
Aguero’’s creative playmaking could be just what Southeast Asia’s all-stars need.
He’ll be operating behind the likes of Timor Leste sharpshooter Joao Pedro and Laotian livewire Bounpachan Bounkong, trying to light up Bukit Jalil with some Asean flair, led by Vietnam’s South Korean coach Kim Sang-sik.
The man with 17 Malaysian caps and three international goals might be the namesake of a City legend, but his mission on Wednesday is all about Malaysian pride.
So when the teams walk out under the Kuala Lumpur lights, and you hear “Aguerooo” don’t panic, United fans.
This time, the script is different. But the passion will be just as real.
