Bogor, Indonesia – February 20, 2026 – Another young talent of Indonesian descent is expressing a strong desire to represent the Garuda, the Indonesian national team. Damian van Dijk, a 21-year-vintage center back currently playing for FC Den Bosch in the Netherlands, has reaffirmed his commitment to playing for Indonesia and has recently re-established communication with the PSSI, the country’s football federation.
Van Dijk, whose roots trace back to Bogor, Indonesia, first made his interest known during the initial wave of naturalization processes involving players like Ivar Jenner and Zico. According to Van Dijk, the PSSI initially outlined a clear pathway for him to be considered for the national team. “They said that if I was playing and training with a senior professional team, they would contact me again,” Van Dijk explained in an interview with YouTube channel Yussa Nugraha.
The defender took those words to heart. After honing his skills, he debuted with Telstar, gaining valuable experience at the senior level. Feeling he had met the initial requirement set by the PSSI, Van Dijk proactively reached out to the federation. However, the response at that time wasn’t what he’d hoped for. “I contacted them to request about the next steps, but I didn’t receive any news regarding the national team, only congratulations,” he said.
Now, it appears the situation has shifted. Recent reports indicate that communication between Van Dijk and the PSSI has been rekindled this season. Even as Van Dijk is understandably cautious about divulging specifics, his willingness to honor a potential call-up speaks volumes about his dedication to representing Indonesia.
- Instagram @damian.vandijk
“For now, I’ve been in contact with them this season,” Van Dijk stated. “But I don’t want to say what the contact is like yet given that I don’t know what will happen. I too don’t want to say things they don’t want me to say right now.”
This measured response suggests that discussions are ongoing, and a potential opportunity for Van Dijk to join the Indonesian national team is very much alive. At 6’3” (1.93 meters), Van Dijk possesses a commanding physical presence, a key attribute for a modern center back. Beyond his size, he’s described as a versatile defender, capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or even a right back, and contributing to the attack as a target man. His ability to build play from the back, with accurate through balls and long distribution, adds another dimension to his game.
Van Dijk’s football journey began in 2007 with the SV Dios academy, where he remained until 2019. He then moved to FC Den Bosch U21 in July 2025, continuing his development in the Dutch football system. His commitment to improving his game and fulfilling the PSSI’s initial requirements demonstrates a genuine desire to represent Indonesia.
The interest in players of Indonesian descent, often referred to as “diaspora” players, has increased significantly in recent years as the PSSI looks to strengthen the national team. The naturalization process, while sometimes complex, is seen as a way to add quality and experience to the squad. Van Dijk’s case is particularly intriguing given his stated willingness to embrace his Indonesian heritage and contribute to the national team’s success.
The next steps for Van Dijk remain unclear, but his recent communication with the PSSI signals a renewed hope for a future with the Garuda. Fans will be watching closely for any official announcements regarding his potential inclusion in the squad. The Indonesian national team is currently preparing for upcoming matches, and the addition of a talented and motivated player like Damian van Dijk could prove to be a significant boost.
Stay tuned to Archysport.com for further updates on Damian van Dijk and the Indonesian national team.
