The new regional tournament, which Indonesia is co-hosting alongside Hong Kong, is scheduled to take place during the FIFA international window from Sept. 24 to Oct. 5.
With the opening date approaching, head coach John Herdman expects his overseas-based stars to join the national team around Sept. 17. This will give the team a week to prepare before their opening match, according to She was.
The European-based defenders are Jay Idzes, Calvin Verdonk and Kevin Diks.
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Indonesia captain Jay Idzes. Photo by Instagram/@jayidzes |
Captain Idzes is one of the most anticipated arrivals for Indonesian fans. The 26-year-old center-back is expected to return to Jakarta after recovering from a recent heel injury and muscle issue that sidelined him during the preseason. He has already resumed training with Serie A club Sassuolo.
His return is crucial for Indonesia’s defense, where he is considered a leader who plays a pivotal role in organizing the backline.
Verdonk is also scheduled to fly to Jakarta approximately a week before the FIFA ASEAN Cup opener. The Lille defender is a familiar choice on Indonesia’s left flank and is expected to integrate with the rest of the squad.
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Left-back Calvin Verdonk before a game for Indonesia. Photo by Instagram/@c.verdonk |
Diks is the third European star confirmed to return to Indonesia before the tournament. The Borussia Monchengladbach defender has received the green light from his club to join the national team.
The addition of Idzes, Verdonk and Diks will provide Indonesia with elite, high-quality defensive options. This serves as a boost for the team in the final stage of preparation.
In addition to this prominent trio, Indonesia are also counting on other overseas players to return soon for the tournament.
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Kevin Diks during a game for Indonesia. Photo by Instagram/@kevindiks2 |
Indonesia are in Group A alongside Bangladesh, Singapore and Malaysia. They have set the goal of winning the title to restore their place in Southeast Asia, especially after a disappointing exit from the group stage of the 2026 ASEAN Cup, which ended on Aug. 26 with Vietnam beating Thailand to claim the trophy.
Indonesia did not have the strongest squad at the tournament, as it was not organized under FIFA’s authority and clubs were not obliged to release players for the national team.