Indonesia rushes to naturalize former Premier League star to serve new coach

"I can mention one name, Jairo Riedewald, who will be naturalized as soon as possible," coach Patrick Kluivert revealed. The former Dutch striker said he would give opportunities to local players but would continue to supplement the squad with European players of Indonesian origin.

Coach Kluivert added: "There may be others. I want naturalised and native players to combine into a team. Anyone can be the heart of the team, an important part of the team."

The player named by coach Kluivert - Jairo Riedewald - is a Dutch national and has an Indonesian mother. This central defender has played for the Dutch youth teams from U15 to U21.

Riedewald (middle) used to play in the Premier League.

He also made three appearances for the Dutch national team, all before the age of 21. According to FIFA regulations, Riedewald is still allowed to change national teams.

Riedewald currently plays for Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Championship. Before the 2024-2025 season, the 1996-born midfielder played in the Premier League for Crystal Palace.

The Indonesian national team currently has a surplus of naturalized European players (with or without Indonesian roots). Most of these stars are playing in Europe and the United States. Before contacting this key force, coach Patrick Kluivert met privately with the local players.

According to CNN Indonesia, the former Dutch player invited five players, Egy Maulana Vikri, Witan Sulaeman, Rizky Ridho, Muhammad Ferarri and Ricky Kambuaya, to talk about the Indonesian team's plans for the coming time.

"I want to raise the players to the same level. They have to meet the physical and mental requirements. Every player has to have good ball control. I like players like that and they know what to do," said coach Patrick Kluivert.

Xiao Ming

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/indonesia-gap-rut-nhap-tich-ngoi-sao-tung-da-o-ngoai-hang-anh-phuc-vu-thay-moi-ar919946.html