Layvin Kurzawa: From Zlatan to Beckham Putra, Adapting to Persib & Learning “1, 2, 3” in Indonesia

BANDUNG, Indonesia – Layvin Kurzawa, the former Paris Saint-Germain star, is navigating a new world both on and off the pitch after joining Indonesian Super League side Persib Bandung in January. While the 33-year-old left-back is adjusting to a different style of play and a vibrant football culture, he’s also taking his first steps in learning Bahasa Indonesia – starting with the basics: “satu, dua, tiga” (one, two, three).

Kurzawa’s arrival at Persib Bandung marked a significant moment for the club and the league, bringing a player with a decorated European career to Indonesia. Having previously starred for AS Monaco, PSG, Fulham, and Boavista, this move represents a fresh chapter for the French international. The transfer occurred during the mid-season window of the 2025-2026 Super League season, officially announced on January 25th, according to reports.

The move to Persib is a completely new experience for Kurzawa, representing his first professional venture outside of Europe. He expressed his surprise and delight at the warm reception he’s received in Indonesia, noting the incredible atmosphere and scenery. “I was surprised since, as I said before, the people here are amazing. The scenery is amazing,” Kurzawa stated, as reported by KOMPAS.com.

Adapting to a new culture is never easy, but Kurzawa is embracing the challenge. He’s finding a different way of life and is eager to discover new things. “I am finding a different culture, where I am trying to adapt. I wish to continue to find new things,” he explained during an interview at the French Residence in Jakarta on March 24, 2026.

The transition has been made smoother by the presence of his French teammate, Andrew Jung, who has provided invaluable support. “I am very comfortable and I thank Andrew Jung every day, because thanks to him I am here. I will continue to try to love the life I live here,” Kurzawa said.

KOMPAS.com/ADIL NURSALAM

From PSG’s Star-Studded Lineup to Persib’s Rising Force

Kurzawa’s experience in the Persib dressing room is a contrast to his time at Paris Saint-Germain. During his tenure with PSG, he shared a locker room with footballing icons like Zlatan Ibrahimović, Neymar Jr., and the famously jovial Ezequiel Lavezzi, known for his ability to lift spirits. He noted that while the personalities differ, the fundamental dynamics of a football dressing room remain consistent.

“Of course it’s different. But, a football dressing room is still a football dressing room. The habits are the same, only the names (of the players) change,” Kurzawa observed. He sees parallels between his former teammates and his new colleagues, including Beckham Putra, recognizing that the core principles of camaraderie and competition transcend individual players.

The shift from sharing a pitch with global superstars to playing alongside Indonesian talent is a testament to Kurzawa’s adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges. He’s finding that the spirit of the game remains the same, regardless of the league or the continent.

However, the language barrier remains a hurdle. While he’s begun to learn Bahasa Indonesia, his current vocabulary is limited to “satu, dua, tiga.” This highlights the cultural immersion he’s experiencing and the effort he’s putting into integrating into his new environment.

A Bridge Between Cultures and Clubs

Kurzawa’s presence at Persib Bandung is also fostering connections beyond the football field. Reports indicate he is playing a role in strengthening ties between Persib and the French government, potentially opening doors for future collaborations. This demonstrates the broader impact a high-profile player can have on a club and its community.

The veteran defender’s arrival has undoubtedly raised the profile of the Indonesian Super League internationally. His experience and pedigree are expected to contribute to the growth and development of the league, inspiring local players and attracting further investment.

For Kurzawa, the move to Indonesia represents more than just a new footballing challenge. It’s an opportunity to experience a different culture, learn a new language, and contribute to the growth of the game in a rapidly developing football nation. He’s embracing the “pesona Indonesia” – the charm and allure of the country – and is determined to make a positive impact both on and off the pitch.

As Kurzawa continues to settle into his new life at Persib Bandung, his journey serves as a reminder of the global appeal of football and the power of the sport to connect people from different backgrounds. His initial struggles with the language, coupled with his appreciation for the Indonesian culture, offer a relatable narrative for fans and highlight the challenges and rewards of playing abroad.

Persib Bandung will next face [Opponent and Date – *information not available in provided sources*]. Kurzawa and his teammates will be looking to build on their recent form and continue their push for success in the Super League 2025-2026 season. Fans can follow the team’s progress and Kurzawa’s journey through official club channels and local sports news outlets.

What are your thoughts on Kurzawa’s move to Indonesia? Share your opinions in the comments below!