Taisei Marukawa Begins Indonesian Citizenship Process, Opens Door to National Team Call-Up

Taisei Marukawa is reportedly undergoing the process of obtaining Indonesian citizenship, with Dewa United confirming its support for the Japanese winger's application. If the process is completed successfully, the 29-year-old could become eligible to represent the Indonesia national team, adding another experienced player with extensive knowledge of the country's football environment.

Born in Higashihiroshima, Japan, on January 30, 1997, Marukawa has spent much of his professional career in Indonesia. He first arrived in 2021 to join Persebaya Surabaya before moving to PSIS Semarang in 2022, where he remained until 2024. He then continued his career with Dewa United, making him one of the foreign players with a particularly long and consistent presence in Indonesian football.

Marukawa's citizenship application is being pursued through the five-year residency route, based on the length of time he has lived and worked in Indonesia. Dewa United believes his extended stay has allowed him to adapt well to local culture and everyday life. His growing ability to communicate in Indonesian has also been viewed as evidence of his strong connection with his surroundings after several years in the country.

The winger already has a notable reputation in Liga 1. During the 2021/2022 season with Persebaya, Marukawa was named the competition's best player, highlighting the impact he made after arriving in Indonesia. His experience across three clubs has also given him a detailed understanding of the league, including its playing style, demands, and competitive environment.

Should his naturalization be completed, Marukawa could potentially provide Indonesia with additional options in attack while also being classified as a local player in domestic competitions under the applicable regulations. His pace, creativity, and ability to create attacking opportunities could become valuable qualities for the national team if he eventually receives an international call-up.