John Herdman Welcomes Mees Hilgers to the Indonesian National Team for the Rehabilitation Process

The presence of Mees Hilgers at the Indonesia national team training sessions has become one of the notable stories ahead of the June 2026 FIFA Match Day. Despite not making the 23-man squad selected by head coach John Herdman for the fixtures against Oman and Mozambique, the FC Twente defender has still joined the Garuda Squad to undergo his recovery process and rebuild his physical condition.

For Hilgers, the opportunity to be back within the national team environment carries far greater meaning than just attending training sessions. After going through a difficult period in his career, the 25-year-old player stated he is grateful to be able to play Football once again.

"After living through one of the hardest years of my life, I am grateful to be able to do what I love again," Hilgers stated, quoted from his official Instagram account.

"Every setback, every challenge, and every disappointment has only added to my motivation for what lies ahead!" he added.

Hilgers' journey over the past twelve months has indeed been far from easy. The central defender, who was previously one of FC Twente's key players, had to navigate a complicated situation after a planned transfer to a new club did not go as expected.

His situation became even more difficult when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injury last November. This serious injury forced Hilgers to spend a long period on the sidelines, missing all competitive match action for the entire season.

Hilgers has now returned to the Indonesia national team, and took part in the open training session held at Madya Stadium, Gelora Bung Karno complex in Jakarta on Monday.

For Indonesia National Team Head Coach John Herdman, Hilgers' presence is about more than just physical rehabilitation. He believes that the close, family-like atmosphere within the Garuda squad can provide the emotional support the player badly needs as he works to return to his peak form.

"For us, Indonesia is his home now. He is happy here. He asked if he could carry out part of his rehabilitation process here alongside his football family, and we welcomed him with open arms," Herdman stated.

While he is not yet able to represent Garuda in official matches, Hilgers' integration within the squad marks an important milestone in his recovery journey.

Hilgers is no stranger to Indonesia national team supporters. Since making his debut against Bahrain in October 2024 under Shin Tae-yong, he has earned four caps for the Garuda squad.

His most recent appearance came in the final fixture of the third round of 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, when Indonesia faced Japan. In that match, the side coached by Patrick Kluivert suffered a 0-6 defeat against one of Asia's strongest national teams.