Marko Simic, a Croatian striker, has been a prominent figure in the Indonesian football scene since joining Persija Jakarta in 2017. However, in recent months, he has found himself playing a limited role in the team, with minimal playing time and rarely starting matches. This situation has raised concerns among fans and pundits alike, prompting Persija’s coach, Thomas Doll, to respond to the issue.
Doll, a former German football player and coach, has been at the helm of Persija Jakarta since September 2020. He is known for his tactical astuteness and ability to get the best out of his players. However, his decision to not give Simic regular playing time has left many questioning his judgment.
In a recent interview, Doll addressed the issue, stating that Simic’s limited playing time was primarily due to tactical reasons. He explained that he had been experimenting with different formations and strategies, which required different players to play specific roles within the team. Doll emphasized that his decision was not a reflection of Simic’s abilities as a player, but rather a tactical choice.
Furthermore, Doll highlighted the competition for places in the team, stating that Persija Jakarta has a squad with several talented strikers. With players like Osvaldo Haay, Bruno Matos, and Riko Simanjuntak in the squad, Doll has had to rotate his forwards to ensure a fair distribution of playing time and maintain a healthy competition within the team.
While Doll’s explanation sheds some light on the situation, it is understandable that Simic and his fans would be disappointed with his limited role in the team. Simic has been a key player for Persija Jakarta in the past, scoring crucial goals and providing an attacking threat. His absence from the starting lineup and lack of playing time could potentially impact his form and confidence.
However, it is important to trust Doll’s decision-making process. As a coach, he is responsible for making difficult choices that he believes will benefit the team as a whole. The competition for places in the squad means that players must constantly prove themselves and earn their spot on the field. It is up to Simic to work hard in training and seize the opportunities given to him to make a case for more playing time.
Simic’s situation serves as a reminder that football is a team sport, and individual players must sometimes make sacrifices for the greater good of the team. While it is undoubtedly frustrating for Simic to be on the sidelines, his commitment to the team’s success should not be undermined. He can still contribute positively to the team’s performance, whether it be through his work rate in training or his impact off the bench during games.
Ultimately, it is crucial for fans and pundits to remain patient and trust Doll’s decision-making. The season is long, and there will be ample opportunities for Simic to showcase his abilities and earn a more prominent role in the team. Until then, it is important to support both Simic and Persija Jakarta as they navigate through the challenges of the BRI Liga 1.
