Indonesian Football: Naturalized Players Return to Liga 1

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The Indonesian Super League competition is becoming more colorful with the presence of a number of naturalized players Indonesian National Team. This season, public attention is focused on two new names, Dion Markx and Shayne Pattynama, who both chose to continue their careers in Indonesia.

The entry of these two players adds to the long list of naturalized players who are now actively playing in local leagues. The following is a summary of the seven naturalized Indonesian National Team players who are currently active in the Super League.

1. Dion Markx

Dion Markx is one of the new recruits who is stealing attention. This Dutch player is part of the Indonesian U-20 national team squad in 2024 and has continued his work with the U-23s since 2025. Dion has officially strengthened Persib Bandung with a 2.5 year contract and can play as a central defender or defensive midfielder.

2. Shayne Pattynama

7 Naturalized Indonesian National Team Players Who Returned Home to Play in Local Leagues

Shayne Pattynama chose to return to Indonesia after previously defending Buriram United in Thailand. The Dutch-born left back signed a long-term contract with Persija Jakarta. In the Kemayoran Tigers team, Shayne had to compete closely with Alan Cardoso and Dony Tri Pamungkas to secure the main position.

3. Thom Haye

7 Naturalized Indonesian National Team Players Who Returned Home to Play in Local Leagues

Experienced midfielder Thom Haye has spent half a season with Persib Bandung. Before joining Bandung, he played for Almere City in the 2024–2025 season. His role is quite vital in maintaining the balance of Maung Bandung’s midfield.

Aiko Tanaka

Aiko Tanaka is a combat sports journalist and general sports reporter at Archysport. A former competitive judoka who represented Japan at the Asian Games, Aiko brings firsthand athletic experience to her coverage of judo, martial arts, and Olympic sports. Beyond combat sports, Aiko covers breaking sports news, major international events, and the stories that cut across disciplines — from doping scandals to governance issues to the business side of global sport. She is passionate about elevating the profile of underrepresented sports and athletes.

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