FOOTBALL fans may be buzzing with excitement as Manchester United is set to play in Malaysia.

However, some are wondering if this marks the first time the iconic club has visited the country. Is it true that today, Wednesday May 28, is the first time Manchester United is playing in Malaysia?

Verdict:

FALSE

No, this is not the first time Manchester United have played a game in Malaysia. In fact, the upcoming match against the Asean All-Stars at Bukit Jalil National Stadium will mark their return after a 16-year absence.

Manchester United has visited Malaysia on pre-season tours multiple times.

One notable visit was in July 2001, when they played a Malaysian Select XI at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.

Manchester United secured a dominant 6-0 victory, with Ruud van Nistelrooy scoring twice, and David Beckham, Andy Cole (two goals) and Luke Chadwick also getting on the scoresheet.

This match was a major event, drawing thousands of enthusiastic fans to the stadium, eager to see their favorite stars, such as Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs and Juan Sebastian Veron, in action.

Manchester United returned to Malaysia in July 2009 for another pre-season tour, playing the Malaysia XI in two matches at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.

In the first match on July 18, Manchester United won 3-2.

Wayne Rooney and Nani put United ahead, but Mohd Amri Yahyah scored twice for Malaysia XI, including a memorable equaliser in the second half, before Michael Owen netted a late winner for United.

Two days later, on July 20, United again defeated Malaysia XI, this time with a 2-0 scoreline, the goals coming from Federico Macheda and Michael Owen.

Today's match is highly anticipated, with over 60,000 tickets already sold, demonstrating the enduring passion of Malaysian fans for Manchester United.

This match, part of the Maybank Challenge Cup, will further solidify the club's long-standing connection with its Asian fanbase.

References:

1. https://reuters.screenocean.com/record/639297

2. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/jan/14/football-manchester-united-asia-tour

3. https://www.skysports.com/football/malaysia-vs-man-utd/stats/104575