PSSI has confirmed that the Indonesian citizenship status of four national team players in the Dutch league remains secure, despite work permit issues following naturalization. National Team Board Chairman Sumardji described the matter as purely Dutch administrative. The controversy arose after club protests over the players' non-EU status.
Four Indonesian national team players—Dean James (Go Ahead Eagles), Justin Hubner (Fortuna Sittard), Nathan Tjoe-A-On (Willem II), and Tim Geypens (FC Emmen)—face residency and work permit issues in Eredivisie after becoming Indonesian citizens (WNI). They lost Dutch citizenship as neither country allows dual nationality.
The controversy started with NAC Breda's protest after a 0-6 loss to Go Ahead Eagles, questioning Dean James's status. TOP Oss protested following a 1-3 defeat to Willem II over Nathan Tjoe-A-On. As a result, the players are barred from playing and training until administrative matters are resolved.
Sumardji stated, “Mengenai permasalahan yang ada di klub-klub Eredivisie, maka itu masalah teknis administrasi yang berkaitan dengan hukum dan peraturan di Belanda.” He added, “Seluruh pemain keturunan yang telah membela Tim Nasional Indonesia telah sah menjadi Warga Negara Indonesia dan dipastikan tidak ada masalah hukum Indonesia.”
Dutch pundit Tijmen van Wissing called the players' decision “stupid” and tricked by Indonesia's campaign. “Saya pikir itu keputusan bodoh dari para pemain dan agen,” he said. PSSI praised their dedication despite losing facilities in the Netherlands.
