Four Garuda Players Face Work Permit Issues in Eredivisie, PSSI Explanation

The work permit issue affecting several Indonesian National Team Players in the Eredivisie or Dutch League had raised concerns. However, PSSI assures that this polemic will not affect their citizenship status or their role with the Garuda squad.

The four players facing work permit obstacles in the Netherlands are Dean James (Go Ahead Eagles), Justin Hubner (Fortuna Sittard), Nathan Tjoe-A-On (Willem II), and Tim Geypens (FC Emmen).

Chairman of the National Team Agency (BTN), Sumardji, emphasized that the issue is purely administrative in the Netherlands and unrelated to the players' Naturalization process.

"Regarding the problems at the Eredivisie clubs, it's a technical administrative matter related to laws and regulations in the Netherlands," stated Sumardji, quoted from the official PSSI statement on Friday.

This clarification is crucial amid public concerns about potential long-term impacts on the players' status.

PSSI confirms that all citizenship conversion processes have followed Indonesian legal regulations.

"All naturalized players who have defended the Indonesian National Team, including Dean James, Justin Hubner, and Nathan Tjoe-A-On, are legally Indonesian Citizens (WNI) and confirmed to have no legal issues in Indonesia," said Sumardji.

Furthermore, Sumardji highlighted the significant sacrifices made by the players in choosing to represent Indonesia.

Many were born, raised, live, and have families outside Indonesia. Deciding to become Indonesian Citizens demonstrates their love and dedication to the homeland.

"This is not only proven by their hard work in national team training and matches, but also evident in the fact that by becoming Indonesian Citizens, they must relinquish many facilities, such as the requirement for permits or visas to live and work in foreign countries, for example in the Netherlands," he added.

Amid this situation, PSSI sees a positive side. The presence of Indonesian Players in European competitions continues to receive appreciation, increasingly demonstrating their existence at the top level.

One example is Maarten Paes, who is now the main goalkeeper for Ajax Amsterdam. Additionally, Mees Hilgers (FC Twente) and Miliano Jonathans (Excelsior) also strengthen the Garuda's footprint in the Netherlands.

"This is concrete proof of the sacrifices made by our players. We are also very grateful that Indonesian National Team players are still trusted to play key roles at top-level European clubs, such as Maarten Paes," he concluded.