4 Indonesian National Team Players Clear Passport Gate, Hubner Can Play Again in the Netherlands
Source: Football Association of Indonesia
Good news comes from the Netherlands. Four Indonesian National Team Players, Dean James, Tim Geypens, Nathan Tjoe-A-On, and Justin Hubner have the opportunity to return to the Dutch League after facing administrative issues known as the "passport gate".
The spotlight is on Justin Hubner. The 22-year-old defender is reported by Dutch media De Limburger to be available for selection when Fortuna Sittard hosts NAC Breda on Sunday, April 12 at 17:15 WIB in the Eredivisie.
Besides Hubner, another player, Justin Lonwijk, is also cleared to return after previous absence.
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"Justin Hubner (22) and Justin Lonwijk (26) can play again for Fortuna Sittard. Both missed one match due to passport issues that drew attention in Dutch football," wrote De Limburger on Friday.
Before Hubner, Dean James first received clearance to return for Go Ahead Eagles. His team is scheduled to visit FC Groningen on Sunday, April 12 at 01:00 WIB.
James returns after being cleared of disciplinary sanctions by KNVB, which completed its investigation into the case.
"Richonell Margaret and Dean James are now permitted to play again for Go Ahead Eagles," stated the club's official announcement.
Positive developments also occurred for Tim Geypens. FC Emmen confirmed the player has met all administrative requirements to return.
In the club statement, Geypens now holds a temporary residence permit valid until 2031, with possible future extensions.
Shortly after, similar news came for Nathan Tjoe-A-On. Willem II confirmed the player has obtained a work permit and is ready to rejoin the team.
"Nathan Tjoe-A-On has returned to Willem II. He has received his work permit and will immediately join the squad," stated the club's official announcement.
This weekend, Geypens and Nathan could feature in Eerste Divisie. Emmen is scheduled to visit Waalwijk on Saturday, April 11, while Willem II hosts Almere City on Sunday, April 12.
The "passport gate" case began when these players lost Dutch citizenship after naturalizing to represent Indonesia.
Under Dutch law, individuals who voluntarily acquire another nationality automatically lose their Dutch citizenship status.
This situation previously prevented them from playing or training with their clubs. Now, after completing administrative processes, all four players finally have the opportunity to return to the pitch.
