Getting to Know Eliano Reijnders, Indonesian National Team Player of Ambon Descent and Younger Brother of AC Milan Star

Kapanlagi.com - Eliano Reijnders, a talented young star with Dutch-Indonesian heritage, is currently capturing attention on the international football stage. The player, who plays as a midfielder, has just taken a bold step by accepting a call-up from the Indonesian National Team after officially obtaining Indonesian citizenship on September 30, 2024. This decision not only strengthens the midfield of the Garuda National Team but also ignites new hopes in the hearts of football fans in the homeland.

Eliano's journey in the world of football began at his childhood club, PEC Zwolle, which has been his home since he was 11 years old. Born on October 23, 2000, he stepped into the professional world with his senior team debut in 2018, including a loan period at Jong Utrecht. Now, he is shining again with PEC Zwolle thanks to his consistently impressive performances, both as a midfielder and a winger.

His love for the club and football is evident. "This is my first club," Eliano expressed, showing his pride for PEC Zwolle. With a burning passion and determination to continue growing, he hopes to make a significant contribution, not only to the club he loves but also to the Indonesian national team, which is now his dream.

1. Career History at PEC Zwolle

Eliano Reijnders, who began his career at PEC Zwolle from a young age, has become a key figure in the team after officially joining the senior squad in 2018. In the 2023/2024 season, this versatile midfielder recorded 32 outstanding appearances, with three goals and one assist that demonstrate his significant contribution to the team.

Known for his flexibility, Eliano not only excels in the central midfield position but also often shines on the wings. His remarkable adaptability has caught the attention of many, including the Technical Director of Zwolle, who praised Eliano as a "high-potential player" bringing positive development to the club.

2. Indonesian Descent and Role in the National Team

Eliano, who has Indonesian blood from his mother, Angelina Lekatompessy from Maluku, is now ready to carve out new history for the national football team. Although news of PSSI's interest in him has been circulating for a long time, this year marks an important moment as he officially joins the Garuda squad.

With the acquisition of Indonesian citizenship at the end of September 2024, Eliano not only brings new hope but also a fighting spirit to strengthen the national team in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Bahrain and China. Now, he is a mixed-blood player ready to elevate Indonesia's name on the international football stage!

3. Inspiration from Family and Commitment in the World of Football

The Reijnders family is indeed inseparable from the world of football, where the blood of football runs strong in each of its members. His father, Martin Reijnders, is a former star of PEC Zwolle who made his mark at the club during two different periods, while his brother, Tijjani Reijnders, is now shining at AC Milan and has chosen to represent the Netherlands.

However, Eliano chose a different path by dedicating his heart to the Indonesian National Team. Since childhood, his love for PEC Zwolle and football has been ingrained in his soul; he proudly recalls, "I have been here since I was 11 years old," he stated on Zwolle's official website.

The valuable experiences with his brother at the Zwolle academy further ignited Eliano's spirit to keep fighting and contributing his best to the team he loves.

4. Comments from the Club

Eliano, the talented young star of PEC Zwolle, is currently in the spotlight due to his rapid development in the world of football. At just 17 years old, his talent has already received praise from the club's Technical Director, who acknowledges that their academy has successfully produced quality players.

"Eliano's development is very encouraging, not only for him but also for PEC Zwolle," said the director. Praise continued to flow when Eliano officially extended his contract in November 2020, with the club describing him as a player who has made a significant impact over the past year.

"He has exceptional technical ability, impressive speed, and is always looking for solutions for the team," they added. With all the hopes placed upon him, Eliano is expected to continue shining and bring achievements to his club.

5. Ready to Defend Indonesia on the International Stage

After officially becoming part of the Indonesian National Team, Eliano cannot contain his excitement to showcase his skills on the green field.

His joining the Garuda squad opens a new chapter in his career, especially with the opportunity to contribute in the qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

With his versatile talent, Eliano is expected to be one of the main pillars that will help the team compete on the international stage.

(kpl/rmt)