PSSI (The Football Association of Indonesia) has decided to proceed with the naturalization process of Maarten Paes, despite reports of potential obstacles from FIFA regulations. Paes, a Dutch-born goalkeeper, has been a subject of interest for the Indonesian national team, and PSSI is keen on adding him to the squad.
However, FIFA has strict regulations regarding the naturalization of players. The governing body requires players to have a clear connection to the country they wish to represent, either through birth, descent, or residency. In addition, players who have already represented one national team at the senior level are not eligible for naturalization.
Maarten Paes, who currently plays for FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, does not have an Indonesian background. He was born and raised in the Netherlands, and his parents are also Dutch. This lack of a direct connection to Indonesia could potentially pose a problem for his naturalization process.
Despite these potential obstacles, PSSI remains optimistic and determined to add Paes to the national team. They believe that his skills and experience would greatly contribute to the squad’s success. PSSI has already initiated discussions with FIFA to explore possible exceptions or alternatives that could allow Paes to be eligible for naturalization.
One possible avenue that PSSI is considering is invoking FIFA’s residency rule. This rule states that a player can be naturalized if they have resided continuously in the country for at least five years after turning 18. Paes, who is currently 23 years old, could potentially meet this requirement if he decides to move to Indonesia and fulfill the residency criteria.
However, this option is not without its challenges. Paes would have to give up his current professional career in the Netherlands and adapt to a new environment in Indonesia. Furthermore, FIFA regulations also stipulate that a player can only represent one national team at the senior level. If Paes were to switch his allegiance to Indonesia, he would no longer be able to play for the Dutch national team.
Despite these complexities, PSSI remains committed to pursuing the naturalization of Maarten Paes. The association believes that his potential contributions to the national team outweigh the challenges posed by FIFA regulations. PSSI is determined to explore every possible avenue to make Paes eligible for the Indonesian national team.
The naturalization process for Maarten Paes is far from straightforward, considering FIFA’s strict regulations. However, PSSI’s determination and optimism are commendable. It remains to be seen whether FIFA will grant any exceptions or alternatives for Paes’ naturalization. Nonetheless, PSSI’s willingness to go the extra mile to strengthen the national team is a testament to their commitment to Indonesian football.
