OFFICIAL: Indonesia 'steps in' regarding 4 naturalized players embroiled in controversy

The Chairman of the National Team Board (BTN) of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) officially addressed the passport scandal involving 4 naturalized players, asserting that Indonesia did not violate any rules and is not concerned about FIFA sanctions.

The Chairman of the National Team Board (BTN) of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Mr. Sumardji, has officially commented on the information that 4 naturalized players of Indonesia are being investigated in the Netherlands, and simultaneously affirmed that the case is not related to naturalization violations as in the case of Malaysia.

Regarding suspicions that the Indonesian national team could be investigated and penalized by FIFA, Mr. Sumardji completely dismissed them. He emphasized that all Indonesian players competing in the Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie have undergone the proper naturalization process.

Specifically, Mr. Sumardji stated: “All Indonesian national team players competing in the Dutch national leagues, including the Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie, have undergone the naturalization process according to regulations.” At the same time, he also urged the public not to equate this with the naturalization scandal in Malaysian football—an incident that previously led to AFC and FIFA penalties for that country.

Regarding the passport complications, the BTN leader explained: “Regarding the issues at the Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie clubs, these are administrative-technical matters related to laws and regulations in the Netherlands. All players of Indonesian origin who have played for the Indonesian national team, including Dean James, Justin Hubner, and Nathan Tjoe-A-On, have become legal Indonesian citizens.” He also affirmed that these issues do not affect the players' eligibility to compete for the national team.

Currently, the 4 players under investigation are Dean James, Nathan Tjoe-A-On, Justin Hubner, and Tim Geypens. These players are temporarily suspended from playing until the investigation is completed.

According to sources from the Netherlands, they are suspected of using their status as native players to register for their clubs, despite holding Indonesian passports, which may violate regulations on non-EU player quotas.

On the other hand, Ajax Amsterdam goalkeeper Maarten Paes has encountered no obstacles. He has completed all legal procedures and work permits, qualifying to play as a non-EU player.

According to ESPN Voetbalpraat, the case is likely to be resolved soon in the coming weeks as the league organizers, authorities, and IND are collaborating to find a solution.

Nevertheless, in the worst-case scenario if fraud or rule-bypassing is confirmed, the involved players could face long-term bans, which would undoubtedly have a significant impact on Indonesian football.