Erick Thohir, the President of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), recently opened the PSSI Congress with a bold statement on the state of Indonesian football. Thohir expressed his belief that it is impossible for a country as large as Indonesia to be ranked 28th in Asia and 6th in ASEAN in terms of football competitiveness.
Thohir’s remarks come at a time when Indonesian football is facing numerous challenges, including a lack of infrastructure, funding, and development opportunities. The country’s national team has struggled to make an impact on the international stage, with disappointing performances in recent tournaments.
Thohir emphasized the need for a comprehensive overhaul of Indonesian football, including improvements in coaching, youth development, and grassroots initiatives. He also stressed the importance of collaboration between the PSSI, clubs, and other stakeholders to drive positive change in the sport.
Thohir’s vision for Indonesian football includes a strong focus on talent development and creating a competitive domestic league that can produce top-quality players. He believes that with the right investments and strategies in place, Indonesia can rise in the rankings and become a force to be reckoned with in Asian football.
While Thohir’s comments may have sparked debate and discussion within the football community, they also serve as a rallying cry for action and improvement. With his leadership and determination, there is hope that Indonesian football can overcome its current challenges and reach new heights in the years to come.
As the PSSI Congress continues, it is clear that Erick Thohir is committed to driving positive change and pushing Indonesian football forward. With his bold vision and ambitious goals, there is optimism that the sport can flourish and thrive in the years to come.