Encouraging Dreams of Young Indonesian National Team Players
Former national football player Gendut Doni is speaking out about the increasing number of naturalized players joining the Indonesian National Team, in an effort to boost the team’s chances of competing in the 2026 World Cup. As a current youth coach, Doni is encouraging young Indonesian players to continue dreaming big and work on improving their skills, despite the influx of naturalized talent.
Supporting Local Talent
Doni emphasizes the importance of local players not losing hope and continuing to strive for excellence. He urges young players to dream big and aspire to represent the national team in the future, regardless of the competition from naturalized players. Doni’s message is clear: with hard work and dedication, local talent can still shine and earn a spot on the national team.
Quality Over Naturalization
While acknowledging the impact of naturalized players on the team, Doni praises the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) for prioritizing quality in their naturalization process. He points to the performance of Jay Idzes and his team in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers as evidence of the positive impact of naturalized players on the national team’s competitiveness.
Positive Outlook on Diaspora Players
Doni also highlights the improved quality of diaspora players joining the national team, noting that many of them play for European clubs, bringing a sense of pride to Indonesian football. He commends the PSSI for their efforts in selecting skilled naturalized players and believes that their presence enhances the team’s overall performance and reputation.
In conclusion, Gendut Doni’s perspective offers a nuanced view of the impact of naturalized players on the Indonesian National Team. While acknowledging the benefits of naturalization in enhancing the team’s competitiveness, he remains committed to supporting and developing local talent, encouraging young players to dream big and work towards achieving their goals on the national stage. His words serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers across Indonesia, reminding them that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible in the world of football.