Nurhidayat Haji Haris: On Fire in the Philippines, Eyeing a Return to the Indonesian National Team

In the vibrant football scene of the Philippines, Nurhidayat Haji Haris is making waves. Since joining United City FC in February 2024, the former Indonesian U-19 captain has been on a mission to rejuvenate his career, proving his worth with every match. 

Scoring two goals and providing two assists in just seven appearances, Dayat, as he is affectionately known, demonstrates the skill and leadership that once made him a standout in Indonesia.

Early Life and Personal Background

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Born in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on April 5, 1999, Nurhidayat Haji Haris has always been a figure of intrigue both on and off the pitch. As the eldest son of Abdul Haris and Musdalifa, Dayat showed a natural affinity for football from a young age, a passion shared by his younger brother, Alwi Mubarak.

In October 2021, Dayat married Sarah Ahmad Almusaiteer, an entrepreneur and internet celebrity. Their wedding, held at the Royal Kuningan Hotel in South Jakarta, was a glamorous affair that captivated the media and fans alike. However, their marriage would soon be under the spotlight for less celebratory reasons.

Club Career Beginnings

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Dayat’s professional career kicked off in 2017 with PSM Makassar. As a young central defender, his calmness on the ball and mature decision-making quickly caught the eye. His debut season in Liga 1 showcased his potential, leading to a move to Bhayangkara FC in 2018. Over two seasons, Dayat solidified his reputation, contributing significantly to the team’s successes.

In 2021, Dayat returned to PSM Makassar but struggled for game time, prompting a move to PSG Pati in Liga 2. His journey continued with a stint at PSIM Yogyakarta before finally landing at Persiraja Banda Aceh in late 2023. Each move marked a new chapter in his evolving career.

A Fresh Start in the Philippines

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The move to United City FC came at a crucial time for Nurhidayat. After a turbulent period in his personal life, including highly publicized marital issues, the shift to the Philippines offered a clean slate. The football environment here, known for its intensity and competitive spirit, has been the perfect backdrop for his resurgence.

“I knew I had to embrace this opportunity fully,” Nurhidayat shared. “It was a chance to focus solely on my game and prove myself all over again.”

Despite being new to the team, Nurhidayat quickly adapted to his surroundings in the Philippines. His ability to connect with local players and earn their respect has been pivotal. It wasn’t long before he was entrusted with the captain’s armband, a clear indication of his leadership qualities and influence on the pitch.

“The morning training sessions are tough, but I always push myself further with extra gym workouts or jogging in the evenings,” Nurhidayat explained. “Consistency and discipline are key.”

International Stint

Dayat’s international career began with a bang. In 2017, he joined the Indonesia U-19 squad for the prestigious Toulon Tournament in France, making a name for himself on the global stage. He captained the U-19 team in the 2018 AFC U-19 Championship, further cementing his leadership qualities.

He transitioned smoothly into the U-23 setup, playing a pivotal role in securing a bronze medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines. His performances earned him a call-up to the senior team for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, although disciplinary issues led to his early return.

Reflecting on Past Challenges

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Nurhidayat’s journey hasn’t been without its trials. The controversies back home, particularly the allegations of infidelity and subsequent public scrutiny, were difficult to navigate. Yet, he has chosen to channel those experiences into positive energy on the field.

“My past mistakes have taught me valuable lessons,” he admitted. “I’ve worked hard to move forward and focus on what I love most – playing football.”

Dreaming of the National Team Return

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For Nurhidayat, the ultimate dream remains a return to the Indonesian national team. His stints with the U-19 and U-23 squads were career highlights, and he is eager for another chance to represent his country. The memories of leading the U-19 team in the Toulon Tournament and the AFC U-19 Championship are still vivid.

“Playing for Indonesia was an honor, and I want to experience that again,” he said. “I’ve grown a lot since then and am ready to contribute to the national team’s success.”

As he continues to impress in the Philippines, Nurhidayat’s focus is unwavering. Each game with United City FC is an opportunity to showcase his talents and send a message to the selectors back home. His commitment to improvement and his performances on the field make a strong case for his inclusion in the national team.

“If the opportunity arises, why not? God willing,” he mused. “I believe in my abilities and am determined to make a positive impact for Indonesian football.”

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