Bogor – Building the Indonesia National Team ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is not simply a matter of selecting the Best Players. Head coach John Herdman is also tasked with developing squad depth, finding the right cross-line combinations, and preparing tactical alternatives to compete at the Asian level.
This requirement became the topic of discussion on the Itsme Podcast featuring Football Analyst Erwin Fitriansyah and Sapto Haryo Rajasa. The discussion was held at Sentul Studio, Bogor on Friday (23/10/2026), hosted by Pudila and Gilang Respaty.
During the discussion, Sapto highlighted the centre-forward or number 9 position as one of the Indonesia National Team's unfinished priorities. According to him, Ole Romeny can perform far more optimally when given freedom to drop and operate behind the main striker, rather than being forced to play as a static target man.
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For this reason, the national team requires alternative players with different playing profiles, to give Herdman greater tactical options. Healthy competition in this position is also critical to maintain performance standards, and provide rotation options when the first choice player is unavailable or experiencing a drop in form.
Marukawa And Wing Player Requirements
The name Taisei Marukawa also came under focus during the discussion. Sapto assessed that the Dewa United player's characteristics could add valuable options on the flanks, particularly to provide attacking variation from both the right and left sides.
Marukawa's potential call up to the national team is tied to his ongoing naturalisation process. In an official I.League statement dated 7 October 2026, Marukawa confirmed he had submitted all required documentation and is currently awaiting further administrative approval.
Marukawa has publicly stated his desire to represent Indonesia National Team should his naturalisation process be completed. It should be noted however that this process does not automatically grant him Indonesian citizenship, nor guarantee he will meet all eligibility requirements to play for the national side.
On the wings, the national team is also monitoring the recovery progress of Marselino Ferdinan and Miliano Jonathans. Both players were discussed on the podcast as athletes who could strengthen attacking options once fully fit, with their availability subject to ongoing recovery assessments and medical team clearance.
Back-up Midfielders Remain A Priority
Erwin Fitriansyah highlighted the need for additional personnel in the midfield line, particularly to provide reliable alternatives for the team's established core midfielders. He noted that proper squad depth will allow Herdman to maintain tactical balance, while having contingency options when game plans need to be adjusted mid-match.
During the conversation, the names Demian and Urip were also raised in relation to potential naturalisation for these young players. Erwin noted that their age profiles make them strong candidates for long term national team contributions. That said, their ability to adapt to teammates, fit into the team's tactical system, and handle the pressure of international competition will ultimately determine their future with the side.
Bringing in new players does not on its own guarantee improvements to the overall team quality. All new additions will still be required to prove their ability during training sessions and official matches, while adapting fully to the system implemented by the coaching staff.
Challenges Against Japan, Qatar And Thailand
The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will be hosted in Saudi Arabia from 7 January to 5 February 2027. Following the official draw conducted by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Indonesia has been placed in Group F alongside Japan, Qatar and Thailand.
All three opponents will require Indonesia to complete full, comprehensive team preparations. Squad depth, attacking efficiency, defensive consistency and tactical execution will all be critical factors when competing in the group stage.
Upcoming international fixtures ahead of the tournament will provide John Herdman with valuable opportunities to evaluate player rosters and test different line-up combinations. Both new call ups and players returning from injury will be assessed based on their match readiness and on-pitch contribution.
Ultimately, building the Indonesia National Team ahead of the 2027 Asian Cup is about far more than just recruiting new players. John Herdman's greatest challenge will be uniting individual talent into a cohesive collective playing style, ensuring every position has adequate backup options, and forging a squad capable of competing consistently at the highest level of Asian football.
