The Indonesian National Team Is Getting Stronger, The Naturalization Of Mees Hilgers And Eliano Reijnders Is Almost Complete

Eliano Reijnders naturalisasinya hampir selesai bersama Mees Hilgers (Instagram/@eliano.r).

JAKARTA - Good news for the Indonesian national team. The naturalization of Mees Hilgers and Eliano Reijnders is reportedly nearing completion. With the joining of the two names, it is believed that the Garuda Squad will be stronger to carry out its closest agenda.

The development of the naturalization of Mees Hilgers and Eliano Reijnders was conveyed by the General Chairperson (Ketum) of PSSI, Erick Thohir.

After watching the 2026 Asian Zone World Cup Qualification match between the Indonesian national team and Australia at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Erick Thohir said that the naturalization of the two players was in the final stages.

"The Minister of Youth and Sports has signed the document, the Minister of State Secretary has also signed it. It's the President's turn to sign it. After that, it's just a matter of process in the DPR."

"It is hoped that by October 15, 2024 they will be able to strengthen the Indonesian national team in the away match against Bahrain and China," said Erick Thohir in his statement quoted on Thursday, September 12, 2024.

Furthermore, Erick Thohir also admitted that the presence of Hilgers and Reijnders would make the national team stronger. Both players will fill the defense sector and attack lines.

"We are still holding out a lot and the attack is not optimal. Maybe with Eliano, the counter-attack could be sharper," he said.

"Meanwhile Mees Hilgers will strengthen the defense. Every month we continue to try to improve the strength of the team," said Erick Thohir.

Erick hopes that naturalization, which has entered its final stage, can be completed soon so that the two players can join the Indonesian national team in the 2026 World Cup Qualification match of the Asian Zone in October 2024, against Bahrain and China.