A Chilean former professional football player is currently seeking financial assistance from Malaysians after his position with the Kedah Darul Aman Football Club (KDA FC) has allegedly left him without a stable income.
Taking to his Facebook page, Nelson San Martín explained that he is sharing his plight out of sheer desperation to provide for his family.
“I never thought the hardest battle of my life would be fought in silence, just trying to survive and feed my family,” he wrote.
“It breaks my heart to write this. I have thought long and hard about whether to make my situation public, a struggle that has been ongoing since 2024. However, I have reached a point of total desperation where I can no longer face this alone.”
Abandoned without communication
San Martín clarified that he is still in Malaysia and remains under contract with KDA FC. Despite this, he alleges that the club has completely cut off communication.
He further revealed:
“The crushing truth is that, for over two months, I have been left completely abandoned without any communication or support.
“The last time I received even a fraction of my salary was on 10 January. Since then, every single attempt to contact the club has been met with silence.”
He further noted that these unpaid months pertain to a new contract signed in November 2025. Additionally, he claims the club still owes him several months of wages from his previous contract.
A nightmare of legal and financial strain
The lack of income has led to a “daily nightmare” for the former midfielder, who is now facing mounting pressure both in Malaysia and his home country.
“I am currently facing serious legal issues back home in Chile that require my urgent attention, but I am completely paralysed here. I am a father and a provider, yet right now, my family and I are struggling just to get through each passing day,” he shared.
“We are lacking the most basic human necessities. We cannot pay our rent, and the pain of being unable to provide for my family’s essential needs is unbearable.”
He considers Malaysia his home
Despite the hardship, San Martín expressed his deep love for the country and his desire to transition into coaching to give back to the Malaysian football community.
“I may be a foreigner, but Malaysia is my home. I have swallowed my pride and endured this silence, these hardships, and even humiliating situations because I truly want to work, live, and stay in this beautiful country. I am so proud to be part of it,” he said.
He concluded by stating that he does not view himself as a “legend,” but rather a man who gave his soul to the sport. He remains hopeful that his employer will resolve the matter soon.
Until then, he also hopes that kind-hearted Malaysians will assist monetarily. If you are interested in donating to Nelson, you can do so here.
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