Right-Back Crisis: Asnawi Mangkualam Still Excluded from Indonesia National Team Squad

Patrick Kluivert has made a bold and surprising decision regarding the right-back position for the upcoming match between Indonesia and China in the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Despite limited options, the Dutch head coach chose not to include Asnawi Mangkualam, a player who was a mainstay during the Shin Tae-yong era.

Defensive Depth Tested

Currently, Indonesia is facing a right-back crisis:

• Kevin Diks, the first-choice right-back, will only join the squad after completing his commitment with FC Copenhagen in the Danish FA Cup final.

• Sandy Walsh is sidelined due to an injury while playing for Yokohama F. Marinos.

• Eliano Reijnders withdrew from the team to attend the birth of his second child.

Asnawi Still Overlooked

This situation seemed ideal for Asnawi Mangkualam to reclaim his place in the squad. The former Jeonnam Dragons player was a regular in the national team lineup under Shin Tae-yong.

However, Kluivert appears to maintain a different tactical approach or assessment, as Asnawi remains excluded from the squad despite the right-back shortage.

The decision raises questions among fans and pundits, especially with a crucial qualifier match approaching.