Jay Noah Idzes became the first Indonesian player to compete in the Italian Serie A when he debuted for Venezia against Fiorentina on 25 August 2024. Born on 2 June 2000 in Mierlo, Netherlands, the centre-back has since advanced to Sassuolo and assumed the role of captain for the Indonesia national football team in international competition.
Early Career in the Netherlands
Idzes began his professional football development in the Netherlands. He made his debut in the Eerste Divisie for FC Eindhoven on 28 April 2018, appearing as an 89th-minute substitute against TOP Oss. In July 2020, he transferred to Go Ahead Eagles following a period of negotiations regarding his contract status. During his tenure at Go Ahead Eagles, Idzes contributed to the club securing promotion to the Eredivisie, where he subsequently competed for two seasons in the top tier of Dutch football.
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In June 2023, Idzes signed a four-year contract with the Italian Serie B club Venezia. His performance during his debut season included 30 appearances and 3 goals, helping the team achieve promotion to Serie A through the play-offs after a victory against Cremonese. On 14 December 2024, he recorded his first Serie A goal in a 2-2 draw with Juventus, establishing himself as the first Indonesian and Southeast Asian player to score in the Italian top flight.
International Representation and Transfer
Although born in the Netherlands, Idzes qualified for Indonesian citizenship through his maternal grandfather. He was officially granted citizenship on 28 December 2023, allowing him to debut for the Indonesia national team against Vietnam in March 2024. Following a successful transition into the squad, he became a regular captain for the team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification rounds. In August 2025, Idzes moved to Sassuolo for a reported €8 million fee, and by December 2025, he reached the record for the highest transfer market value among Indonesian players.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 June 2000, Mierlo
- Citizenship: Indonesia
- Current Club: Sassuolo
- International Debut: 21 March 2024
- First Serie A Goal: 14 December 2024
- 2026 PSSI Awards Indonesia Men’s Player of the Year
Questions readers ask
Did Jay Idzes play in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup?
No, he was not available for the squad because the registration period had already closed by the time he became eligible.
Which Italian clubs has Jay Idzes represented?
He has played for Venezia and Sassuolo.
