When Chelsea arrives in Malaysia for the final leg of their pre-season tour, new manager Xabi Alonso reunites with former Liverpool team-mate Luis Garcia. Garcia, now the chief executive of Johor Darul Ta'zim, welcomes Chelsea to the 40,000-capacity Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Sunday.

The pair's history dates back to 2004, when they both signed for Rafael Benitez's Liverpool on the same day. Despite competing against each other in Spain, their first real encounter was at Anfield. Garcia reminisced, "He told me he didn't speak English too well before our unveiling press conference. I answered the first question in Spanish, as we had a translator present, and he answered in perfect English and I thought: 'Why you little?!'"

Both Alonso and Garcia played pivotal roles in Liverpool's dramatic Champions League final victory over AC Milan that same season and continued their football journey together with the Spanish national team. Garcia emphasizes their enduring friendship, stating they have remained "really good friends" and kept in touch.

However, Alonso is set to face a significant challenge in this final overseas friendly. Chelsea's tour includes matches against elite teams like Tottenham, Juventus, and AC Milan, culminating in this monumental match in Johor.

Garcia acknowledged the importance of the event, saying, "Chelsea is the biggest test we will face this season. I'll be so happy to welcome them in Johor. The stadium is going to be packed. We can't wait to challenge ourselves against a top club, top players, and it is great to face Alonso. I can assure you on Sunday we will compete."