U17 AFF Cup 2026 Prep: Kurniawan Calls Up Three Diaspora Players

Indonesia U-17 coach Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto has opened the door for diaspora talents in preparations for the 2026 AFF U-17 Cup. The former national team striker revealed plans to call up three young players currently developing abroad to join the team's training camp.

The three players are from England, Australia, and New Zealand. Currently, the coaching staff is maintaining intensive communication to ensure they can join the Garuda Muda squad.

"Starting next week we will invite three Diaspora Players. We're in discussions because one from the UK has ticket issues requiring transit through the Middle East – we're seeking solutions. Another is from Australia, and one more in New Zealand," Kurniawan stated in Jakarta on Friday.

For Kurniawan, diaspora players have equal opportunities to strengthen the national team provided they meet administrative requirements and tactical needs.

"They have equal rights to become national players. They hold Indonesian passports, and from the videos we've seen, they possess quality. So whoever has quality and fits our game plan deserves to strengthen the national team," he explained.

Player monitoring employs modern methods. The coaching team communicates directly with players and parents while analyzing match footage.

From numerous received videos, the staff narrowed selections to three names considered most compatible with squad requirements.

"From many videos submitted, we distilled to three players potentially fitting our prepared game plan," he said.

However, Kurniawan stressed diaspora players' tournament participation remains uncertain as they're under contract with their clubs. 

"We've sent official letters. But again, they're bound by club contracts. Later we might prioritize who can actually join," concluded Kurniawan.

This call-up initiative aims to expand Indonesia U-17's squad depth for competitive performance at the 2026 AFF U-17 Cup.