Manchester United is reportedly set to embark on a preseason tour of Asia after the conclusion of the 2024/25 season. One of the highlights of this tour is a friendly match against the ASEAN All-Stars in Malaysia in mid-2025.
This match has garnered attention as the ASEAN All-Stars will have the rare opportunity to face one of the biggest clubs in the world. Additionally, speculation has emerged that former Indonesian national team coach Shin Tae-yong could be appointed as the team’s head coach.
The news was highlighted by a report in the Vietnamese media outlet The Thao, which suggested that STY may lead a squad composed of Southeast Asia's top soccer talents.
Read also: Manchester United to Face ASEAN's All-Star in Malaysia, May 2025
Red Devils Preseason Tour to Asia
Manchester United is scheduled to face Aston Villa in their final Premier League match on May 25, 2025. Following that, Alejandro Garnacho and his teammates will fly directly to Kuala Lumpur for their match on May 28.
After the match in Malaysia, the Red Devils will continue their tour in Hong Kong.
This tour is highly anticipated by MU fans in Asia, given the club's immense popularity in the region.
Will Shin Tae-Yong Lead ASEAN All-Stars?
While the ASEAN All-Stars squad has yet to be confirmed, speculation is mounting that Shin Tae-Yong will take over as head coach. Since parting ways with PSSI in January, the South Korean coach has yet to take charge of a club or national team.
If appointed, STY will have plenty of time to develop strategies and build a solid team. His five years of experience with the Indonesian national team, along with his deep understanding of Southeast Asian football, make him an ideal candidate for the role.
A report from The Thao further strengthens the case that STY is the frontrunner for the position. Given his track record in developing young talent and elevating Indonesia's national team, many believe his presence could bring a unique dynamic to the match against Manchester United.
Possible ASEAN All-Stars Squad
The official squad list for the ASEAN All-Stars is yet to be announced. However, Vietnamese media outlet The Thao is reporting that several top players from Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand are likely to be called up.
From Vietnam, names like Tien Linh, Quang Hai and Hoang Duc are potential candidates for the squad. From Indonesia, key players from the Shin Tae-yong era such as Marselino Ferdinan and Rafael Struick are also strong contenders.
The Indonesian national team has been in impressive form, especially after their strong performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This increases the likelihood of several Indonesian players making the ASEAN All-Stars squad.
History of ASEAN All-Stars
It is important to note that ASEAN All-Stars is not a permanent team but a special squad assembled for specific events. A similar team was previously formed in 2014 to face the Indonesian national team in a charity match. That match was part of a humanitarian initiative to support the victims of Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines.
The formation of the ASEAN All-Stars in 2025 follows a similar pattern, with the team being assembled exclusively for a friendly match against Manchester United. By bringing together the best players from various Southeast Asian countries, this match is expected not only to entertain football fans but also to showcase the rapid development of football in the ASEAN region.
