"In a recent conversation with Mr. Shin Tae-yong, I discussed the plan to add more naturalized players. For the time being, we have not added any more players, PSSI focuses on naturalizing the remaining players. This process is being greatly accelerated thanks to the support of relevant parties“, sheet Repbulika Indonesia quoted PSSI president, Mr. Erick Thohir.
Recently, PSSI has promoted its plan to naturalize more players to strengthen the Indonesian team. A group of players like Ivar Jenner, Rafael Struick, Justin Hubner, Jay Idzes are making great contributions to the island team at the 2023 Asian Cup. They helped the Indonesian team win an important victory over the Vietnamese team and reach the next round. 1/8.
The Indonesian team has many naturalized players.
Most recently, Nathan Tjoe-A-On has just completed the process of naturalization in Indonesia. Meanwhile, Thom Haye and Ragnar Oratmangoen were present in Indonesia but could not take the oath of office because the paperwork had not been completed.
Thom Haye and Ragnar Oratmangoen have returned to the Netherlands to prepare for round 26 of the Dutch national championship taking place this weekend. These two players are expected to significantly enhance the strength of the Indonesian team. They often play on the field and are an important factor in the parent team's lineup. They will return to Indonesia for the oath-taking ceremony in March. The duo can even play in the match at My Dinh Stadium on March 3.
Thus, under president Erick Thohir, Indonesia is expected to successfully naturalize at least 7 players. Along with the 4 players who were naturalized before when former president Mochamad Iriawan was still in office, Indonesia can call up 8-11 players with foreign blood.
Although PSSI wants to quickly upgrade the strength of the Indonesian team, they understand that they cannot naturalize too many people. This helps domestic players have the opportunity to compete and develop in the future. This is a sustainable direction for Indonesian football instead of going down the path of Singapore and the Philippines.
