National team players Sandro Reyes and Amani Aguinaldo will represent the Philippines when the ASEAN All-Stars face Manchester United on May 28 in Malaysia. This match is part of Manchester United’s Asian tour, which includes games in several countries to engage with fans across the region.
Reyes and Aguinaldo were selected by the ASEAN Champion head coach Kim Sang-sik based on their recent performances with the Philippine men’s national team. Reyes, who plays for Gutersloh in Germany, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, recognizing the hard work of his teammates and staff that helped him reach this point. Aguinaldo recently finished his season with Rayong in Thailand and is also excited to take part in the match.
Both players contributed significantly to the Philippines’ success in the 2024 ASEAN Championship, where the team reached the semifinals for the first time in six years. A notable achievement during the tournament was a victory over Thailand, the first for the Philippines in fifty years. This progress has raised the profile of Philippine football in the region and helped secure Reyes and Aguinaldo’s spots on the ASEAN All-Stars team.
Manchester United’s Asian tour includes a friendly against the ASEAN All-Stars and another match in Hong Kong. The club has called up 32 players for the post-season friendlies, highlighting the importance of engaging fans in Asia. Reyes said the chance to play against Manchester United is special and hopes it will inspire young football players in the Philippines. He noted that despite coming from a country where football is still developing, it is possible to succeed and play alongside world-class athletes.
After the friendly match, Reyes and Aguinaldo will return to the Philippines to prepare for an important Asian Cup qualifier against Tajikistan. The match is scheduled for June 10 at the New Clark City Stadium and is crucial for the Philippines’ hopes of advancing in the competition.
This period is important for both players as they balance their roles in high-profile international matches and national team duties. Their participation in the ASEAN All-Stars and the upcoming qualifier reflects their growing influence in Philippine football.
