More and more players of Indonesian descent are showing interest in becoming Indonesian citizens and strengthening the Indonesian national team. One of the latest names is Damian van Dijk, a 20-year-old player who can play both as a center-back and a full-back. Standing tall at 194 cm, Damian is a formidable presence in defense.
Currently playing for SC Telstar in the second division of Dutch football, Damian van Dijk’s football journey began at a very young age. He started with SV Dios and then joined Lisse Youth in 2017. In 2019, he moved to DWS Youth. After a season with DWS Youth, Damian returned to Lisse Youth before joining Telstar U-18 in 2021.
His impressive performance with Telstar U-18 earned him a promotion to the U-21 team. The club’s management has expressed their desire to extend his contract until the end of next season. Damian has also had the opportunity to train with Telstar’s senior team, a significant achievement for the young player.
Damian van Dijk has been in communication with the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) and hopes to complete the naturalization process soon. “It’s just a matter of time, and we will be able to talk at a higher level. I hope I can become an Indonesian citizen as soon as possible,” he said in an exclusive interview with Bola.com.
Damian believes that playing for the Indonesian national team will make him a better player, and he is confident that he can contribute positively to the team. “The Indonesian national team will make me better, and I think I can also make the Indonesian national team better. It will be a great collaboration,” he added.
Damian van Dijk’s towering height often sees him positioned as a center-back. However, he has also been deployed in other roles, including right-wing, right-back, and defensive midfielder. According to Transfermarkt, the player, whose father hails from Bogor, is versatile across various positions.
As a modern center-back, Damian not only excels in thwarting opposition attacks but also frequently initiates his team’s offensive plays. Highlight reels showcase his ability to distribute the ball accurately to his teammates. He has even provided assists through long passes behind the opposition’s defensive line.
In addition to launching attacks with his passes, Damian often dribbles past opponents before delivering through balls. His ability to read the game enables him to intercept opposition plays effectively.
With his potential and skills, Damian van Dijk’s presence in the Indonesian national team would significantly bolster the squad. His ideal physique, game-reading ability, and defensive prowess make him a player to watch for the future of Indonesian football.
Hopefully, Damian’s naturalization process will be completed soon, allowing him to represent Indonesia on the international stage. The collaboration between Damian van Dijk and the Indonesian national team is expected to bring remarkable achievements to Indonesian football.