Cyrus Margono, the Goalkeeper Who Dreams of Representing the Indonesian National Team but is Overlooked in the Era of Coach Shin Tae Yong

Kapanlagi.com - Cyrus Margono, a talented young goalkeeper aged 22, has just taken a brave step by becoming an Indonesian citizen (WNI) in March 2024. This decision was made with great hopes of strengthening the Indonesian National Team in the future. Although he has Indonesian blood from his father, Cyrus's journey to fulfill his dream of representing the Garuda squad has not been as smooth as he imagined.

The goalkeeper, who was born in Mount Kisco, United States, on November 9, 2001, previously gained valuable experience playing for Panathinaikos B in Greece. With a height of 190 cm and experience in European leagues, he should be a valuable asset for the development of Indonesian football. Unfortunately, until now, his name has not entered the radar of the National Team coaches, both in the era of Shin Tae-yong and Patrick Kluivert.

Now, Cyrus's fate is increasingly uncertain after his contract with Panathinaikos B ended in July 2024. Without a new club and with limited playing opportunities, his dream of wearing the jersey of the Indonesian National Team feels further away. So, what is actually hindering Cyrus's progress in his career? Check out the complete information summarized by Kapanlagi.com on Wednesday (15/1).

1. The Beginning of a Career and Journey to Europe

Since childhood, Cyrus Margono has shown extraordinary talent in the world of football by joining prestigious academies such as New York Soccer Club and Met Oval Academy. In 2015, he had a rare opportunity to train at the Inter Milan Academy, which further honed his skills as a goalkeeper.

After returning to his homeland, Cyrus continued his journey at the university level, strengthening the Denver Pioneers team before switching to the UK Wildcats at the University of Kentucky, where he managed to catch the attention of many European clubs thanks to his brilliant performances.

The peak of his career occurred in 2021 when he joined Panathinaikos B in Greece. Although playing for the reserve team, this valuable experience became an important stepping stone to realizing his dream of making a mark in European professional football.

2. The Process of Becoming an Indonesian Citizen: Still Not Called by Shin Tae Yong

Cyrus, the son of an Indonesian father and an Iranian mother, has just officially become an Indonesian Citizen (WNI) after taking the citizenship oath in Jakarta on March 21, 2024, through the Immigration Certificate route (SKIM), without having to undergo the naturalization process.

With his new status, the door for Cyrus to represent the Indonesian National Team is increasingly open, following in the footsteps of other mixed-heritage players like Elkan Baggott and Rafael Struick.

However, despite meeting the requirements, Cyrus has yet to be called up by the National Team coach, Shin Tae-yong, who revealed that the lack of information about Cyrus's abilities on the field is the main obstacle, as he has never witnessed the player's actions in person.

3. Without a Club

Cyrus's situation has become more complicated after his contract with Panathinaikos B ended in July 2024, and so far, he has not found a new club to continue his career.

The loss of crucial playing minutes has pushed him further away from the attention of National Team coach, Patrick Kluivert, who emphasizes the importance of club experience as one of the main selection criteria.

With fierce competition in the goalkeeper position, Cyrus is required to work harder to showcase his abilities and seize the opportunity to defend the Indonesian National Team.

4. Cyrus Margono's Hope to Represent the National Team Open?

Although his career journey is filled with obstacles, Cyrus's chance to wear the Indonesian National Team jersey is still wide open. At his young age, he has a golden opportunity to improve his performance and seek a new club that offers more playing time.

The success of several players of mixed heritage in the National Team should serve as a motivational boost for Cyrus to keep fighting. Support from PSSI and the National Team coach will also be key in realizing his dream. Although his future with the Indonesian National Team remains a mystery, Cyrus's dedication to representing the Garuda squad deserves a thumbs up.

"One very important thing is that players can say 'Yes, I am fit' But what does it mean to be fit if you are not getting playing time on your team?" said the Dutch coach, quoting bola.com.

5. Who is Cyrus Margono?

Cyrus Margono, a talented goalkeeper born in the United States, officially became an Indonesian citizen (WNI) in 2024, combining the spirit of international football with the cultural roots of Indonesia that flow in his blood.

6. Why hasn't Cyrus Margono been called up to the Indonesian National Team?

Cyrus has not received a call-up due to limited playing time at the club and a lack of direct observation from the coach.

7. What are Cyrus Margono's achievements in the world of football?

Cyrus, who once made achievements with his university team in the United States, is now continuing his adventure in the world of football by joining Panathinaikos B in Greece.

8. 4. Does Cyrus Margono still have a chance to represent the Indonesian National Team?

Despite the great challenges, Cyrus still has a chance if he can improve his performance and secure a new club.

(kpl/rmt)