Rafael Struick Shines at Dewa United, Osmar Loss Stays Out of National Team Affairs

Dewa United Banten FC's young striker Rafael Struick has once again caught the eye in the BRI Super League 2026/2027. His impressive performances in the Banten Warriors' front line have sparked public discussion about whether he deserves to wear the Indonesia national team jersey again.

Struick, now 22 years old, was once a mainstay in the Shin Tae-yong era. But since John Herdman took over the head coach role, his name has no longer appeared in call-up lists. His last appearance for the Merah-Putih came on 20 March 2025 away to Australia in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Since then, the national team door has seemed closed to him.

This season, a fresh breeze has blown. Dewa United head coach Osmar Loss acknowledged the player's rapid development. According to him, Struick has become more mature in carrying out tactical instructions, from creating space and pressing to executing specific roles within the team's playing scheme.

"Rafael is a young player who this season has shown progress and very good performances, especially in carrying out tactical duties. Of course there are still aspects that need improving, and we continue to work together to develop him," said Osmar Loss.

Despite praising his player, Osmar was reluctant to interfere in national team selection. The Brazilian coach stressed that the final decision rests entirely with Herdman. "I am not the right person to determine whether he should be called up or not. The national team has its own coach who will observe and select players," he said.

Struick's return to the national team is not merely about individual performance. Indonesia are currently preparing for the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, where the Garuda have already qualified and been placed in a group determined by the AFC. Herdman faces an urgent need to find the best composition, especially in a front line that has often been a weak point. In that context, a figure like Struick—who has international experience and is now on fire at his club—could be an attractive option.

However, consistency is the key word. With a packed schedule, including Dewa United's participation in the I.League Cup, Struick must be able to maintain his level of play. If he keeps scoring and contributing heavily, it is not impossible that Herdman will take notice. Conversely, a drop in form could make that opportunity vanish.

Indonesian football fans certainly have high hopes. Struick is one of the young talents who once gave hope in the attacking line. His return to the national team would be a morale boost in itself, especially ahead of the prestigious tournament in Saudi Arabia. Now the ball is in Herdman's court: will he give Struick a second chance, or continue to rely on other names? The answer will be seen in the next call-up list.