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Shin Tae-yong Dismissed: What Led To The Initial Issues With PSSI?

Shin Tae-yong was officially dismissed by PSSI as the head coach of the Indonesian National Team on Monday, January 6, 2025. This decision has sparked considerable discussion and controversy among football enthusiasts in the country. 

Opinions are divided; some believe that PSSI's decision was justified, while others feel it was made hastily. Nevertheless, it has been reported that PSSI began preparing for Shin Tae-yong's dismissal and the search for a new coach following Indonesia's matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia. 

PSSI chose January 2025 as the appropriate time to announce Shin Tae-yong's termination. What led to the conflict between Shin Tae-yong and PSSI? The decision to dismiss him was not abrupt; it had been contemplated since October 2024, during Indonesia's visit to China for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in the Asian zone. At that time, internal dynamics within the Indonesian National Team were evident, although PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir refrained from disclosing specifics. The situation was exacerbated by the team's 2-1 defeat to China, and tensions reportedly escalated after Indonesia's 2-2 draw with Bahrain, particularly when Shin Tae-yong declined to engage in discussions with several players. 

Players who questioned his tactics against Bahrain faced repercussions, with Thom Haye being benched and Jay Idzes losing the captaincy. The Indonesian National Team continued to experience disappointing results, including a 1-2 loss to China, despite dominating the match. 

What factors influenced PSSI's decision to terminate Shin Tae-yong? In addition to internal issues and a perceived lack of harmony with the players, Shin Tae-yong reportedly faced communication challenges. He has not yet mastered the Indonesian language, despite PSSI having included a clause in his contract requiring him to learn it. 

During a press conference, Erick Thohir stated that the decision to dismiss Shin Tae-yong was made after careful consideration and evaluation. 

Tag: Indonesian National Team PSSI