Just after a 6-0 victory, Indonesia’s star unexpectedly issued an apology

Indonesia national team star Mees Hilgers expressed his apologies after the 6-0 triumph against Taiwan.

Indonesia secured an impressive 6-0 victory against Taiwan during the September FIFA Matchday. However, alongside the joy from the result, Indonesian football drew attention as defender Mees Hilgers, one of the called-up players, was unexpectedly absent. According to CNN Indonesia, the president of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, revealed after the match that Hilgers had called to apologize for being unable to join the squad.

Mees Hilgers was included in coach Patrick Kluivert’s squad for this training camp. The presence of the defender, currently playing for FC Twente, was expected to strengthen Indonesia’s defense. Yet, while other players gathered in Surabaya, Hilgers did not show up. The reason given was that he had to handle procedures related to his future in Europe.

“Mees Hilgers called me to apologize for not being able to attend,” Erick Thohir shared after the victory over Taiwan.

According to the PSSI president, it is important to balance players’ personal careers with their national duties. Erick emphasized that wearing the national jersey is a significant sacrifice, but players should not lose club-level development opportunities. He confirmed that Hilgers is facing issues related to a transfer plan, which needs to be understood.

“We must protect players on a personal level and give them chances to grow. It’s true that representing the national team requires sacrifice, but that doesn’t mean their careers should be harmed. For Mees, the issue lies in his transfer, and we need to respect that,” Erick added.

Dutch media report that Hilgers is seeking to leave FC Twente to experience a new football environment. Erick Thohir also left open the possibility that the defender might join another European club, as some transfer windows, like Turkey’s, remain open until September 6.

“We should give him the chance to finalize his transfer in Europe. There is still time in countries like Turkey. Hopefully, Mees will soon play for a new club or make a clear decision with his current team. I am not a club operator, so I cannot interfere deeply,” the PSSI president emphasized.

Hilgers’ absence is certainly a loss for Indonesia, but experts say it is not a major obstacle as the team still has many quality players. Moreover, the tactful and empathetic handling by the PSSI president is seen as a positive message, showing Indonesian football’s readiness to support overseas-based players to contribute to the national team while maintaining sustainable careers in Europe.