How Indonesia turns unknown footballers into adored superstars: ‘We couldn’t leave the hotel’

Maarten Paes, the starting goalkeeper for FC Dallas in Major League Soccer, goes unnoticed on the busy streets of Dallas, Texas, but is a social media sensation and receives a hero’s welcome in Indonesia, where he represents the national team. Despite his Dutch roots, Paes has embraced his Indonesian heritage and has garnered a massive online following, showcasing his popularity beyond the football world.

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