The first Southeast Asian to score in Italy's top flight
In short: Jay Idzes is redefining what it means to be a footballing pioneer. A Dutch-born defender of Indonesian descent, he broke historical barriers in Serie A, becoming the first player from his region to find the back of the net in one of Europe's most prestigious leagues.
Born in Mierlo, Netherlands, Jay Idzes began his professional journey in the Dutch Eerste Divisie with FC Eindhoven in 2018. His career trajectory took him through Go Ahead Eagles, where he secured promotion to the Eredivisie, before moving to Italy. In 2023, he joined Venezia, a club where he quickly established himself as a defensive pillar. By the end of the season, he had made 30 appearances and scored three goals, leading his side to Serie A via the play-offs after a victory over Cremonese.
Idzes' move to Italy marked a significant milestone for Indonesian football. On August 25, 2024, he debuted in Serie A against Fiorentina, becoming the first Indonesian player to compete in the Italian top flight. His historic status was cemented on December 14, 2024, when he scored against Juventus. Achieving this objective established him as the initial Indonesian and Southeast Asian athlete to find the net within Serie A, marking a significant regional landmark beyond his personal success.
His international career is equally significant. Despite being born in the Netherlands, Idzes qualified for Indonesia through his maternal grandfather. He officially obtained Indonesian citizenship on December 28, 2023, and made his debut against Vietnam in March 2024. His rapid ascent saw him become a regular captain during World Cup qualification rounds. Sassuolo acquired him for €8 million plus extras by late 2025, which equalled the highest transfer market price ever paid for an Indonesian footballer.
Idzes' journey highlights the evolving nature of global football identity. His transition from Dutch youth systems to becoming a national hero in Indonesia illustrates how heritage and professional mobility intersect. Recognized as the 2026 PSSI Men's Player of the Year, he stands as a symbol of the growing influence of Southeast Asian talent on the world stage.
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