The Firing Decision and Its Consequences
At the recent AFF Cup 2024, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) made a controversial decision to fire coach Shin Tae Yong immediately after the national team was eliminated from the group stage. This event not only sparked intense debate but also brought attention to the issue of selecting a coach for the U23 Indonesian team at the upcoming SEA Games 2025.
The Firing Decision and Its Impact
South Korean coach Shin Tae Yong was tasked with leading the Indonesian national team, primarily composed of U22 players, at the 2024 AFF Cup. This was seen as preparation for the SEA Games 2025 and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. However, the team’s youth and lack of experience led to difficulties in competing at the AFF Cup, resulting in disappointing results.
Immediately following this defeat, PSSI terminated Shin Tae Yong’s contract and appointed Dutch coach Patrick Kluivert as the new head coach of the national team. Notably, the role of leading the U23 Indonesian team at the SEA Games has yet to be addressed in PSSI’s plans.
The Role of Indra Sjafri and the Big Question
In this context, Indonesian media began questioning the role of former U23 Indonesia coach Indra Sjafri, who led the team to victory in the men’s football event at the 2023 SEA Games. However, Sjafri is currently coaching the U20 Indonesian team, and there is no official information about his return to lead the U23 team.
When asked about potentially coaching the U23 team at the 2025 SEA Games, Indra Sjafri responded: “If I’m asked about coaching the U23 team at the 2025 SEA Games, I don’t know how to respond. Right now, I am focused on my work with the U20 team.”
This response has further fueled public uncertainty, especially given the analysis provided by the Indonesian newspaper Jawapos. The paper noted that PSSI previously emphasized that the young team participating in the 2024 AFF Cup would form the core for the 2025 SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. However, following Shin Tae Yong’s departure, all plans seem to be in limbo.
Future Directions and Challenges
Another notable detail is that European coach Patrick Kluivert seems unenthusiastic about the SEA Games. In recent statements, PSSI chairman Erick Thohir has focused on the goal of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup when discussing Kluivert’s role, without mentioning the SEA Games. This raises questions about whether PSSI truly values regional competitions.
Meanwhile, the 2025 SEA Games will be held in Thailand, where the U23 Indonesian team needs a clear strategy to maintain its strong performance from the 2023 SEA Games. The absence of an appropriate coach and a concrete plan could severely impact the team’s chances.
Conclusion
The firing of Shin Tae Yong has created a significant gap in Indonesia’s strategy for developing young football talent. To prepare adequately for the 2025 SEA Games, PSSI must promptly decide on the coach for the U23 team and develop a long-term growth plan. Only then can Indonesian football continue to assert its position in Southeast Asia.
Readers interested in more related articles can follow updates on the COCC-EDU-VN website.
Source: dantri.com.vn
