Jakarta. Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman Erick Thohir defended the inclusion of naturalized players in the national team amid criticism from lawmakers, asserting that such moves are in line with FIFA regulations and contribute to the team’s progress.

The House of Representatives Commission III recently approved Indonesian citizenship for Eliano Johannes Reijnders Lekatompessy and Mees Victor Joseph Hilgers, allowing them to join the national team.

Erick Thohir emphasized that while differing opinions are part of a democratic society, PSSI remains committed to enhancing the national team’s performance.

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"In a democracy, differing opinions are normal. However, from PSSI’s perspective, and I believe the government shares this view, we must aim to improve the national team's achievements," Thohir told reporters at the Law and Human Rights Ministry in South Jakarta.

He compared Indonesia’s naturalization policies with those of other footballing nations, noting that FIFA rules permit naturalizing players from abroad as long as they adhere to the regulations. Thohir highlighted examples from other countries, such as the Netherlands, France, and the United States, which have integrated players from various backgrounds.

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Thohir also pointed out that many naturalized players in Indonesia have Indonesian heritage through their parents or grandparents. He cited Mees Hilgers, who recently demonstrated his national pride by holding the Indonesian flag during a club event, as an example of genuine nationalism.

"Football is a global event, and everything is open according to FIFA rules. For example, naturalized players who have been playing in the domestic league for five years or have Indonesian ancestry from their parents or grandparents are eligible," Thohir added.

In Indonesia’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Australia on September 10, the Garuda Squad featured nine naturalized players in the starting lineup, achieving a 0-0 draw with the higher-ranked Australian team.

At the moment there are 10 naturalized players in the senior team: Maarten Paes, Calvin Verdonk, Jay Idzes, Sandy Walsh, Rafarel Struick, Ragnar Oratmangoen, Ivan Jenner, Nathan Tjoe A On, Justin Hubner, and Thom Haye.

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