Head coach for Bali United, Stefano Cugurra Teco has noted that Michael Essien's move to play in Indonesia in 2017 made the top-flight league more popular.
The Ghanaian international and Chelsea great joined Persib Bandung on a one-year deal in 2017 after he had ended his stint with Greek giants Panathinaikos.
At that time, he was the high profile overseas player in the country and attracted a lot of attention.
According to Coach Stefano Cugurra Teco, Michael Essien undoubtedly helped the Indonesia league to be more famous in Europe.
“Yes, certainly in 2017 when there will be a marquee player like Michael Essien, the Indonesian League will become more famous in Europe”, the gaffer said in an interview with the Bali Tribune.
The Bali United head coach further stressed, “Other European players are starting to come to Indonesia”.
Before Essien played in Indonesia, other high profile players such as Cameroon World Cup hero Roger Milla and Argentine World Cup winner Mario Kempes had played in the country before [in the 1990’s].
After Essien, Nigeria’s Peter Odemwingie and former Newcastle United player, Danny Guthrie have all had stints in the country.
Currently, more top European players are being attracted to the country.
Coach Stefano Cugurra Teco explains the dynamics that could lead to more foreign players being signed by Indonesian clubs.
"I think it depends on the achievements of European players in League 1 now. If the performance decreases, maybe the team will not use it anymore and will see players from other countries.
"But, if the performance remains good, surely other European players will come to Indonesia”, the Bali United coach said.