Emil Audero Speaks Out: Why He First Turned Down Indonesia, Now Proud to Play for Garuda

Indonesia national team goalkeeper Emil Audero has finally revealed the reason behind his decision to initially turn down the offer to strengthen the Garuda squad before eventually changing his mind. In an exclusive interview with Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Audero admitted that family circumstances were the main factor that made him hesitate to accept Indonesia's approach in 2024.

“At that time I couldn't accept it because of family conditions. I also wanted to seek new experiences and see football outside Europe,” Audero said, as quoted from the interview.

The initial rejection was not without basis. Audero, who was born in Lombok on 18 January 1997, has Indonesian blood from his father, Edy Mulyadi, and Italian from his mother, Antonella Audero. Despite having an emotional bond with Indonesia, he had gone through a long journey with Italy's youth national teams from U-15 to U-21. In May 2024, he still emphasized his focus on developing his career in Serie A and dismissed speculation about joining the Indonesia national team.

However, the dynamics changed. On 10 March 2025, Audero officially took his citizenship oath at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Rome, Italy. This decision marked a new chapter in his career, as well as an important moment for Indonesian football, which has been aggressively naturalizing players of descent.

Audero's debut with the Indonesia national team came on 5 June 2025 against China in the third round of 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Jakarta. The match ended in an Indonesia win, and since then he began adapting to the team's scheme under the coach. The pinnacle came when he helped Indonesia win the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. In the final against Thailand on 5 October 2026, Audero became the hero by saving an opponent's shot, securing the title for Garuda.

“I am very happy with the choice I made. An experience like this gives a lot, both personally and in terms of football,” Audero said.

Audero's decision to play for Indonesia also reflects the growing naturalization trend in national football. Over the past few years, PSSI has aggressively approached players of descent to strengthen the national team, with the long-term target of reaching the World Cup finals. Audero's presence, with his experience in European competitions, is expected to improve the team's quality and mentality, especially in defense.

In the interview, Audero also expressed his hopes for the future of the Indonesia national team. “In the next 10 years, I want to see Indonesia become a team capable of troubling European national teams,” he said. This statement reflects optimism that Indonesia can compete at the international level, in line with the federation's vision of building a sustainable football foundation.

Even so, Indonesia's journey is still long. Challenges such as performance consistency, youth development, and a competitive domestic league are homework that must be completed. The presence of naturalized players like Audero does provide an instant boost, but without systemic reform, the long-term targets could be difficult to achieve.

Going forward, Indonesian football fans will be waiting to see whether Audero and his teammates can continue their achievements on a bigger stage, such as the Asian Cup or even World Cup qualifiers. If Audero's ambition comes true, it is not impossible that Indonesia could become a new force to be reckoned with in Asian and world football.