In the 18-team competition, Indonesia is one of the main opponents for China's national football team in their quest for a World Cup qualification. Over the past two years, Indonesia has been making every effort to enhance its own strength. And yesterday, three major plans from the Indonesian Football Association were revealed.
Firstly, Indonesia is set to make significant moves in terms of player naturalization. Dutch media reported that Indonesia has officially approached 24-year-old Lille defender, Bakker, and is working hard to convince him to join the Indonesian national team. Bakker, who has Indonesian ancestry, has previously played 21 games for the Netherlands' youth team.
Since Bakker has not yet played for the Netherlands' senior national team, he meets the criteria to represent Indonesia. It is reported that Bakker is seriously considering Indonesia's invitation. At only 24 years old, his market value is as high as 5 million euros.
Should Bakker really join Indonesia through naturalization, it would undoubtedly pose a significant challenge to China's national team, with our offensive quality facing a higher-level test. After the first six rounds of the 18-team competition, both China and Indonesia have accumulated 6 points each.
Secondly, Indonesia's prospective naturalized forward, Romelu Lukaku, officially joined English Championship side Oxford United yesterday, demonstrating the player's capabilities. Last November, Lukaku announced his intention to play for Indonesia. Currently, he is in the process of completing the relevant naturalization procedures. Unsurprisingly, he should be able to participate in the World Cup qualifiers in March.
Lastly, Indonesia is also planning to invite the 73-year-old Louis van Gaal out of retirement. Next month, the Indonesian Football Association will visit the Netherlands, where they will meet with van Gaal to discuss the possibility of him taking on a coaching role. If van Gaal declines the head coach position, the Indonesian FA will offer an alternative role as technical director.
Currently, Indonesia's head coach is Shin Tae-yong, but the chairman of the Indonesian Football Association, Erick Thohir, is not satisfied with him. Italian media revealed that Thohir intends to hire a European coach for the team.