Rafael Struick

Rafael Struick is a Dutch-born Indonesian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Dewa United Banten in the Indonesian Super League. Born on March 27, 2003, in Leidschendam, Netherlands, he chose to represent Indonesia internationally after obtaining citizenship in 2023. Known for his pace, dribbling, and finishing, Struick has become a promising attacking talent with a growing reputation.

As of 2026, Struick is a regular in the Indonesia national team setup, having featured in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup and the U23 AFC Asian Cup. His move to Dewa United in 2025 marked a new chapter in his club career, following stints with ADO Den Haag and Brisbane Roar. Fans appreciate his direct style and his commitment to the Indonesian cause, making him a player to watch in the coming years. [edit]

Rafael Struick grew up in the Netherlands, surrounded by football culture. His father, a Dutch citizen of Indonesian descent, and his mother, of Surinamese and Javanese ancestry, provided a multicultural upbringing that later influenced his international career. He started playing youth football at RKAVV and Forum Sport, where his natural athleticism and attacking instincts quickly stood out.

His talent earned him a spot in the ADO Den Haag academy, a significant step in his development. On 6 May 2022, he made his professional debut for ADO Den Haag in the Eerste Divisie against FC Emmen, becoming part of the senior squad. In June 2022, he signed his first professional contract, solidifying his commitment to the sport. His performances in the youth ranks and early senior appearances caught the attention of the Indonesian Football Association, given his eligibility through his parents. On 22 May 2023, he officially obtained Indonesian citizenship, a pivotal moment that allowed him to represent Indonesia on the international stage. [edit]

Struick's international career took off in 2023 when he participated in the SEA Games and the AFC Asian Cup, where Indonesia reached the knockout stage for the first time in their history. His standout moment came at the U23 AFC Asian Cup in 2024, where he scored twice in a quarter-final victory over Korea Republic, including a stunning long-range goal that was later named the goal of the tournament. That run helped Indonesia reach the semi-finals, a historic achievement.

On the club front, Struick moved to Brisbane Roar in September 2024, debuting against Auckland FC on 19 October 2024. He made 10 appearances and scored one goal in the A-League Men. In 2025, he joined Dewa United Banten in the Indonesian Super League, where he continues to develop. On 10 October 2024, he scored his first senior international goal in a World Cup qualifier against Bahrain, a 2–2 draw. Under coach Shin Tae-Yong, he has earned 14 caps, becoming a reliable forward for Indonesia. [edit]

Rafael Struick is recognized for his speed, dribbling, and sharp finishing. He is seen as a versatile forward, comfortable as a central striker or on the wing. His choice to represent Indonesia has endeared him to a passionate fanbase, who view him as a key piece in the national team's future. Media describe him as a dynamic and promising talent, though his public persona remains low-key. He has not cultivated a distinct brand or fandom name, letting his performances speak for themselves. [edit]

Rafael Struick commands a steady, regional profile as a professional footballer with significant visibility in Southeast Asia and among the Indonesian diaspora, yet his global footprint remains that of a promising talent rather than a household name. iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated this person, but they do not currently hold a placement in the published rankings (Global Top 1,000 or a Top-100 scope list). This absence from the hierarchy indicates that while his career trajectory draws consistent attention, he has not yet crossed the threshold into the stratum of worldwide celebrity where sustained mass consumption and media saturation define status. His public presence is anchored in athletic performance and transfer news rather than viral cultural mythology or broad-spectrum fame. The fanbase associated with Struick has no formal name documented in authoritative records. Unlike global superstars who cultivate organized support groups with distinct identities, his supporters operate through general sports interest channels without a unified self-designation or structured campaigns. While social media metrics show substantial follower counts, these reflect broad engagement with football content rather than a dedicated, ritualistic fandom. There are no recorded instances of fan-led initiatives, such as charity drives or specific branding projects, that would suggest a formalized collective identity. Consequently, the narrative surrounding him remains strictly tied to his on-field contributions and professional movements between clubs like Brisbane Roar and Dewa United Banten, without the layer of legendary status or iconic folklore that characterizes figures higher on the fame scale.[edit]

Rafael William Struick is right-footed despite frequently operating on the left wing. He secured Indonesian citizenship on 22 May 2023, a necessary step before representing the nation internationally. His long-range strike against Korea Republic during the U23 Asian Cup was officially voted the tournament's best goal. Struick shares a unique coaching connection with Shin Tae-Yong, who previously played for Brisbane Roar, adding context to Struick's tenure there. He possesses a dual heritage linking the Netherlands, Indonesia, and Suriname. Upon joining Brisbane Roar in September 2024, his arrival drew immediate attention from Indonesian fans watching the A-League. He made his debut for the club on October 19, 2024, against Auckland FC. After one season, he departed Brisbane Roar in May 2025 to return to Indonesia and join Dewa United Banten. In August 2025, he was called up to the Indonesia U-23 squad for the Asian Cup qualifiers. During a match against Laos later that year, he was part of the squad facing defensive criticism, a noted event in his developing career record.[edit]

Rafael Struick comes from a multicultural family. His father is a Dutch citizen of Indonesian descent, while his mother has Surinamese and Javanese roots. This diverse background influenced his decision to represent Indonesia. Details about siblings or his current household are not publicly documented. Struick keeps his personal life private, focusing on his football career. [edit]

Rafael Struick has worked closely with Indonesia national team coach Shin Tae-Yong, who previously played for Brisbane Roar. He is teammates with several other Indonesian internationals, including Jay Idzes, Ivar Jenner, and Thom Haye. His move to Brisbane Roar in 2024 connected him with the A-League community, and he has been part of a generation of Dutch-born players choosing to represent Indonesia. [edit]

There is no publicly available information about Rafael Struick's romantic relationships. As of 2026, he has not been linked to any partner in media reports, and he keeps his personal life private. His focus appears to be on his football career. [edit]

Per iFANN's editorial analysis, Rafael Struick's net worth is estimated at $1 Million as of 2026. This valuation reflects his earnings from professional football contracts throughout his career. Following his development years at ADO Den Haag, he moved to Brisbane Roar before establishing himself at Dewa United Banten. While exact salary figures remain private, players in the Indonesian Super League typically command competitive wages. Struick has not publicly disclosed endorsement deals or external business ventures, meaning his financial standing is derived primarily from his club agreements. The iFANN Editorial Team attributes this total specifically to his active playing career and contract history.[edit]

Rafael Struick won the U23 AFC Asian Cup Goal of the Tournament award for his spectacular strike against Korea Republic in 2024. He also helped Indonesia achieve historic milestones, including reaching the knockout stage of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup and the semi-finals of the U23 Asian Cup. [edit]