Calvin Verdonk has begun training with the Indonesian national team at Madya Stadium, Senayan, Central Jakarta. This Dutch-Indonesian player is currently undergoing a naturalization process facilitated by the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI).
The latest news indicates that Verdonk’s naturalization will be discussed by the Indonesian House of Representatives’ (DPR) Commission III and X on Monday, June 3, 2024. The Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports, Dito Ariotedjo, mentioned that the DPR has been quick in handling this process. “Alhamdulillah, the DPR is working swiftly. We will have a meeting on Monday with Commission III and X to finalize the decision,” said the Minister.
Verdonk, who is 27 years old, is expected to soon represent Indonesia in the remaining two matches of Group F in the second round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for the Asian Zone. Indonesia is scheduled to host Iraq at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) on Thursday, June 6, 2024, and will face the Philippines at the same venue on June 11, 2024.
The Indonesian national team squad has increased by two players, Pratama Arhan and Calvin Verdonk, who began training on the morning of May 31, 2024. However, some players like Yance Sayuri, Jay Idzes, Justin Hubner, and Jordi Amat have not yet joined the training camp. Sayuri suffered an injury to his left thigh, while Amat will arrive from Malaysia on the same day.
During the training session, Verdonk appeared somewhat stiff and did not engage much with his teammates. In contrast, Pratama Arhan entered the field with Asnawi Mangkualam Bahar, the team captain. The training atmosphere was relaxed, with head coach Shin Tae Yong giving instructions with occasional smiles. After the warm-up session, the training concluded with tactical exercises in preparation for the match against Tanzania on Sunday, June 2, 2024.
Calvin Verdonk, a product of Feyenoord’s youth academy, began his professional career with the club on April 24, 2014. He made his Eredivisie debut on March 8, 2015, against Excelsior Rotterdam. After several loan spells at other clubs, Verdonk currently plays for NEC Nijmegen.
This player, who has Indonesian roots from his father who hails from Aceh, has faced many football stars worldwide. In an interview on Yussa Nugraha’s YouTube channel, Verdonk shared his experiences playing against Kylian Mbappe and Renato Sanches. At the senior level, he has also faced challenges from players like Antony, who now plays for Manchester United.
Verdonk’s naturalization process is expected to strengthen Indonesia’s defensive line. With valuable international match experience and versatility in playing multiple positions, Verdonk is ready to make a significant contribution to the Indonesian national team.
