Indonesia’s national football team will not be adding any new naturalized players in the near future, PSSI chairman Erick Thohir confirmed on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the GBK Arena in Jakarta.
Speaking during a media session, Thohir emphasized that the current priority is supporting head coach John Herdman’s integration with the existing squad rather than pursuing additional overseas-born talent. “We are currently focusing on the players we have now, working alongside Coach John to build team cohesion,” he stated.
The decision comes ahead of the June 2026 FIFA Matchday window, with Thohir explaining that the federation aims to strengthen team unity first before revisiting discussions about naturalization. He noted that Herdman is still in the process of evaluating each player’s characteristics and abilities, requiring time to assess the current roster thoroughly.
Thohir also revealed that the temporary halt on naturalization puts two high-potential dual-heritage players of European descent at risk of being approached by other national teams. These athletes, described as “Grade A” prospects, may now receive calls from alternative countries amid Indonesia’s pause on processing new heritage-based applications.
Despite ongoing rumors about PSSI engaging with diaspora players for potential citizenship transitions, Thohir clarified that no formal steps have been taken to add new naturalized members to the team. The focus remains on optimizing the available players while fostering unity under Herdman’s leadership.
