Jakarta, Indonesia – Former Indonesia national team coach Shin Tae-yong has offered a measured response to the growing trend of Indonesian players, many with experience abroad, returning to compete in the domestic Super League. Speaking on Friday, February 20, 2026, Tae-yong indicated that he doesn’t view the shift as a major concern, emphasizing the importance of consistent playing time for the players’ continued development.
The return of diaspora players to the Indonesian Super League has been a notable development over the past two seasons. The 2025-2026 Super League season features a number of high-profile names who previously plied their trade in European and Asian leagues, signaling a potential boost in the overall quality of Indonesian football. This influx of talent is seen by many as a positive step towards strengthening the national team program in the long term, offering players opportunities to adapt to the local game whereas remaining on the radar for national team selection.
Though, the move hasn’t been without its critics. Some observers believe these players should be striving to compete at the highest levels in Europe, and a return to the domestic league represents a step backward in their careers. Despite these concerns, Tae-yong appears to prioritize the immediate benefits of regular game time for his players.
Several naturalized players who previously played abroad have recently chosen to join prominent Indonesian clubs. Players like Jordi Amat, Shayne Pattynama, Mauro Zijlstra, Thom Haye, Eliano Reijnders, and Ivar Jenner are now key figures in the current Super League season. This trend reflects a growing appeal of Indonesian football for players of Indonesian descent seeking to contribute to the national game.
Persija Jakarta has been particularly active in recruiting diaspora players during the transfer window, adding Jordi Amat, Shayne Pattynama, Mauro Zijlstra, and goalkeeper Cyrus Margono to their squad. Persib Bandung has also strengthened their roster with the signings of Thom Haye, Eliano Reijnders, and Dion Markx, all with experience in European football. Dewa United has also emerged as a destination for players of Indonesian heritage, securing the services of Rafael Struick and Ivar Jenner, both considered promising talents for the future of the national team.
Bali United has also joined the trend, signing young striker Jens Raven. The arrival of young diaspora players is seen as an essential investment in the regeneration of Indonesian football. The increasing presence of players with international experience is expected to raise the competitive level of the Super League and provide a valuable pathway for developing talent for the national team.
“Yes, it’s not a problem,” Tae-yong said Friday. “The important thing is that each player works hard in their respective teams.” This sentiment suggests that Tae-yong prioritizes the players’ current form and development within the league over concerns about potentially hindering their chances of competing at the highest levels in Europe. The focus, for now, appears to be on maximizing the potential of these players within the Indonesian football ecosystem.
The Super League continues to evolve, and the influx of diaspora players represents a significant shift in the landscape of Indonesian football. Whether this trend will ultimately benefit the national team remains to be seen, but Shin Tae-yong’s pragmatic approach suggests a willingness to adapt and embrace the changing dynamics of the game.
The next Super League matches are scheduled for the weekend of February 21-23, 2026, with several key fixtures featuring the newly-signed diaspora players. Fans can follow updates and results on the official league website and through various sports news outlets.
