Thom Haye Officially Joins Persib Bandung, Controversy Emerges

BANDUNG, KOMPAS — Indonesian national team midfielder Thom Haye has officially joined Persib Bandung. This news has elicited both positive and negative reactions from football fans in the country.

The news of this recruitment was announced by Persib on Wednesday (27/8/2025). Haye, a player born in Amsterdam on February 9, 1995, will join Persib in competing in the BRI Super League and AFC Champions League 2 for the 2025/2026 season.

Previously, Haye last represented Almere City in the second tier of the Dutch League (Eerste Divisie) during the 2024/2025 competition season. However, the club did not extend Haye's contract this season.

At Persib, for the next two years, this naturalized defensive midfielder will strengthen the midfield.

The Deputy CEO of PT Persib Bandung Bermartabat, Adhitia Putra Herawan, stated that the recruitment of Haye is a strategic move by the club to maintain balance in the squad's midfield. Haye's presence complements the strength in the midfield.

Currently, the midfield of "Maung Bandung" is strengthened by prominent names in football today. In addition to captain Marc Klok, there are Dedi Kusnandar and Adam Alis. The Argentine player, Luciano Guaycochea, who once strengthened the youth team of Boca Juniors, is also with Persib this season.

"Wilujeng Sumping Thom Haye. We believe his quality and experience will be a vital addition to Persib's ambitions," said Adhitia, welcoming him.

Adhitia stated that the recommendation came directly from head coach Bojan Hodak. Hodak assessed that Haye possesses a playing character that aligns with the team's needs.

Monitoring, said Adhitia, has been carried out since the player joined the Indonesian National Team and through his long track record in the Netherlands.

"The figure of Haye is known for being tough and intelligent in reading the game. He is also skilled at maintaining the rhythm in the midfield. This has earned him the trust to represent the Dutch National Team from U15 to U21 before ultimately choosing to don the Garuda jersey," said Adhitia.

Previously, Hodak said a new player would be joining the team. However, he declined to name or name the player's position.

"Keep monitoring Persib's social media. There will be someone, but I can't reveal the name yet," he said.

Haye's professional career has been quite mature. He made his senior debut with AZ Alkmaar in 2012.

Haye then strengthened Willem II Tilburg (2016–2018), ADO Den Haag (2019–2020), NAC Breda (2020–2022), Heerenveen (2022–2024). Haye is with Almere City in the 2024/25 season.

After more than a decade of playing at the highest level in the Netherlands, he has become one of the midfielders with a wealth of international experience. Haye is expected to elevate the achievements of Persib, which is currently being tested at the beginning of this season.

The defending champions' back-to-back performances have been less than ideal. In three matches, Persib has only managed one win, one draw, and one loss.

The victory of Persib was achieved against a team that was nearly relegated last season, Semen Padang. A draw was obtained when facing the promoted team PSIM Yogyakarta. In fact, Persib suffered a defeat when competing against another promoted team, Persijap Jepara.

Meanwhile, the news of this recruitment has received mixed responses. Some circles claim that Haye will help Persib achieve a third consecutive title. Haye is also expected to improve Persib's performance in the Asian arena.

Rijal (26), a supporter from Antapani, Bandung City, is optimistic that Haye will make Persib even stronger. He will address Persib's shortcomings in the robust defensive midfielder position.

However, some parties believe that Haye's decision to join Persib is a loss for the Indonesian National Team. Haye's ability is doubted to develop, and may even decline, if he only competes in the Indonesian League.

Sulthon (36), another resident of Bandung, expressed happiness for Haye and his beloved team. However, he is doubtful that Haye's abilities will significantly improve if he plays in the Indonesian League.

"His efforts are needed to qualify Indonesia for the World Cup. Hopefully, his abilities don't decline," he said.