The naturalization program for football players has been a recurring issue in debates on the development of the Indonesian national team since the early 2010s. In recent years, the phenomenon has become increasingly common as part of broader efforts to enhance national team performance. Based on Law Number 12 of 2006 on Citizenship, foreigners who have provided services to Indonesia or whose presence is deemed to serve the national interest may be granted Indonesian citizenship. This study examines the implications of naturalization through a comprehensive analysis of its legal framework and its impact on multiple aspects, including the quality and competitiveness of the national team, the regeneration and opportunities for local players, and the cultivation of national identity and values. While naturalization offers potential benefits in raising the international profile and achievements of Indonesian football, it also poses challenges to domestic player development and may influence perceptions of national identity. Therefore, the practice of naturalization must be carefully balanced with policies that strengthen grassroots football, nurture local talent, and uphold the values of nationalism in sports.
Amelia et al. (2024) studied this question.