Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field with Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents

Kapanlagi.com - Thom Haye, a talented midfielder from the Netherlands who now strengthens the Indonesian National Team, is currently in the spotlight due to his critical stance on the performance of his team, Almere City, in the Dutch Eredivisie. Amidst the poor situation faced by the club, Haye expressed his frustration, highlighting the responsibilities of his teammates on the field.

Haye's journey to becoming part of the Indonesian National Team also has a long story, from his debut with AZ Alkmaar to obtaining Indonesian citizenship. The player known by the nickname The Professor also draws attention for his unique playing style and brilliant tactics on the field. What are Haye's steps in building his football career, both in Europe and Indonesia? Check out the complete story below.

1. Background and Indonesian-Dutch Ancestry of Thom Haye

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field with Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

Thom Jan Marinus Haye, born in Amsterdam on February 9, 1995, carries Indonesian-Dutch blood. He is a descendant of a family with Indonesian lineage through his grandfather from Solo, Central Java, and his grandmother from Sulawesi. Since childhood, he has shown a great interest in the world of football, spending his early years in the Netherlands.

Thom's football education began at the AFC Youth academy and then progressed to the youth team of AZ Alkmaar in 2006. There, he honed his skills, eventually making it to the first team. From a young age, his desire to become a professional footballer was evident, demonstrated by his determination in training.

Thom Haye later became known as a player with high technique and intelligence in reading the game. His playing style often attracts attention, and it is no surprise that he earned the nickname The Professor from his fans.

2. Professional Debut with AZ Alkmaar and Early Achievements

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field Who Has Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

Haye made his debut with AZ Alkmaar in 2014 in a match against Ajax Amsterdam. As a defensive midfielder, he delivered stable performances, helping the team control the game from the midfield. He recorded 73 appearances with five goals and two assists, demonstrating his consistency in defending the club.

Over time, Haye became increasingly important for AZ Alkmaar. His presence on the field stood out, making many take notice of his disciplined playing style. Haye is also known for having a balanced ability in both defense and attack, making him a valuable asset for the club.

However, in the 2016-2017 season, Haye decided to seek new challenges by joining another Eredivisie club, Willem II. There, he hoped to further develop his career and enrich his experience in the Dutch domestic competition.

3. Adventure in Italy with Lecce and Returning to the Netherlands

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field Who Has Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

In the 2018 season, Haye decided to try his luck outside of the Netherlands by joining the Italian club, Lecce. Unfortunately, Haye's adventure in Italy did not last long. He only lasted one season and failed to get many playing opportunities. This failure led him to decide to return to the Netherlands.

Upon returning to the Netherlands, Haye joined ADO Den Haag. However, he was often loaned to NAC Breda to gain more playing time. This decision proved to be right, as he began to find the rhythm of play that he had lost during his time in Italy.

At NAC Breda, Haye managed to show a more stable performance, proving his ability as a tough defensive midfielder. This also attracted the attention of other clubs, including SC Heerenveen.

4. Career with SC Heerenveen and Outstanding Statistics

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field Who Has Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

In January 2022, Thom Haye officially joined SC Heerenveen. There, he recorded impressive appearances with 68 games played, scoring five goals, and providing ten assists. These statistics indicate his significant role in the club, where he often became a key player in midfield.

Haye has been one of the consistent players in contributing both defensively and in supporting the attack. At SC Heerenveen, he became increasingly known as a player with mature tactics, often providing direction to his teammates on the field.

His career with SC Heerenveen has become one of his greatest achievements. Although he eventually had to leave, Haye continued to show his loyalty and maintained his performance until he was recognized by many football observers.

5. Officially Becoming an Indonesian Citizen and Debuting in the National Team

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field with Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

On March 18, 2024, Haye officially became an Indonesian Citizen (WNI) after the naturalization process. Haye immediately joined the Indonesian National Team and made his debut against Vietnam in the Asian World Cup qualifiers. This step is one of the significant achievements in his career.

This change in citizenship status has also garnered widespread attention, considering Haye previously represented the Netherlands national team at various age levels. However, with this decision, he shows his dedication to helping the Indonesian National Team achieve success.

Since his debut, Haye has performed quite solidly and has managed to demonstrate his quality as a defensive midfielder. He is known for often providing input to teammates and coaches to improve the team's performance.

6. Criticism of Almere City and Challenges in the Eredivisie

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field Who Has Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

At Almere City, Haye expressed dissatisfaction with the team's poor performance in the Eredivisie for the 2024/2025 season. He stated that his teammates need to be more responsible, especially when facing difficult situations. His firm stance has caught the media's attention, showcasing a strong leadership side in Haye.

Almere City is currently in the relegation zone, putting additional pressure on the team. Haye feels that his team needs to be more committed and not just show up when winning. This statement has received various responses from fans.

Despite his criticism, Haye emphasized that his love for Almere City remains strong. He hopes the team can quickly rise and overcome this difficult period.

7. The Nickname The Professor and Thom Haye's Unique Playing Style

Profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team on the Field Who Has Unique Tricks to Defeat Opponents. (instagram/thomhaye)

Thom Haye is known by the nickname The Professor because of his intelligent playing style and unique tactics. Instead of avoiding opposing players, he approaches them to draw their attention, opening up space for his teammates. This nickname was first given when he played for NAC Breda.

This unique playing style has earned Haye much praise from fellow players, including Hamka Hamzah, who considers him a genius player. Haye is not bothered by this nickname; instead, he finds it helps motivate him.

In the Indonesian National Team, Haye often provides tactical input to the coach and his teammates. This further strengthens his role as a defensive midfielder who relies not only on physical strength but also on intelligence.

That is the profile of Thom Haye, The Professor of the Indonesian National Team. Let's keep up with other news. If not now, when?

(kpl/kpc)