Sassuolo’s defensive powerhouse and Indonesia’s national team captain, Jay Idzes, has sparked a lighthearted culinary debate between two of the world’s most renowned food cultures. In a recent media appearance with his club, the towering center-back didn’t hesitate to place his heritage above his current home, declaring Indonesian cuisine as the absolute best in the world—ranking Italian food a very close second. Since his high-profile move to Sassuolo in the summer of 2025, Idzes has become a pivotal figure under manager Fabio Grosso, but while his professional life is firmly rooted in the Italian “Motor Valley,” his palate remains loyal to the flavors of Southeast Asia.
The Cultural Roots of Jay Idzes’ Culinary Preferences
The bond between a professional athlete and their heritage often manifests in the kitchen. For Jay Idzes, this connection is deeply personal, stemming from his upbringing in the Netherlands with strong Indonesian roots from his maternal side. His grandparents, who lived in Jakarta and Semarang for two decades before moving to Europe, played a crucial role in shaping his identity.
“I really love Indonesian cuisine. In my opinion, it is perhaps the best food in the world,” Idzes stated during an interview shared on Sassuolo’s official Instagram account. “Italian food is in second place, but it’s a very narrow margin.”
This sentiment isn’t just about taste; it’s about memory. Idzes recounted spending nearly every day with his grandmother during his childhood. She was a prolific cook who introduced him to the complex spices and aromatics that define Indonesian gastronomy. Even as he competes at the highest levels of European football, those early memories of home-cooked meals remain his primary comfort.
Nasi Goreng and Sate: The Champion’s Diet?
When asked about his specific favorites, Idzes was quick to name the “big three” of Indonesian comfort food: Nasi Goreng, Sate Ayam, and Gado-Gado. For those unfamiliar with the dishes, Idzes acted as a cultural ambassador, explaining the nuances of each to his Italian audience.
“My favorite Indonesian dish is definitely Nasi Goreng—a rice-based dish with vegetables and various ingredients,” he explained. “Then there is Sate Ayam, which is skewered chicken meat served with a peanut sauce. And as a side, there is Gado-Gado, which you could call a traditional Indonesian salad.”
While professional athletes usually follow strict nutritional guidelines monitored by clubs like Sky Sports often reports on, the “sportainment” side of the industry loves these glimpses into the human element of the players. It raises the question: how does a player maintain peak physical condition while craving the rich, peanut-heavy sauces of Indonesia? For Idzes, it seems to be about balance and the psychological boost that comes from connecting with his roots.
From Venezia to Sassuolo: A Rising Career in Italy
The journey of Jay Idzes in Italian football has been one of rapid ascent. After a successful stint with Venezia, where he helped the team navigate the complexities of Italian tactical football, he made the move to Sassuolo in 2025. Under the tutelage of ESPN’s frequently covered Italian legend Fabio Grosso, Idzes has solidified his reputation as a ball-playing defender with exceptional aerial prowess.
His transition to Sassuolo marks a significant step in his career. The club, known for its modern facilities and scouting network, has provided Idzes with the platform to showcase why he is considered one of the best defenders in the Indonesia National Team roster. His leadership on the pitch is mirrored by his growing influence off it, as he bridges the gap between European professional standards and the passionate fanbase of the Indonesian archipelago.
A Global Ambassador for the Garuda
As the captain of the Indonesian National Team, Idzes carries the hopes of millions. His performances in FIFA World Cup qualifiers have made him a national hero. By openly discussing his love for Indonesian culture—specifically its food—he reinforces a sense of national pride that resonates deeply with fans back home.
In the world of “sportainment,” these narratives are vital. They transform a player from a mere statistic on a spreadsheet into a relatable figure. Whether he is defending against elite strikers in Italy or sharing stories about his grandmother’s cooking in Semarang, Idzes represents the modern, globalized footballer: technically proficient, culturally aware, and fiercely loyal to his origins.
Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds
While the debate between Indonesian and Italian food will likely never be settled, Jay Idzes is living the best of both worlds. He spends his days training in one of the most prestigious footballing nations on earth and his evenings—whenever possible—revisiting the flavors that his grandmother perfected decades ago.
As Sassuolo continues its campaign, fans will be watching Idzes not just for his defensive clearances, but for the personality he brings to the game. In the end, whether it’s a plate of pasta in Emilia-Romagna or a bowl of Nasi Goreng, for Jay Idzes, it’s all about the passion put into the craft—both in the kitchen and on the pitch.
For more breaking football news and match analysis, explore our latest football coverage here.
