Inp.polri.go.id - Batam. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) planned to develop youth football competitions to build a consistently competitive national team, similar to Japan’s model.

“We are proud that our U-17, U-20, U-23, and senior national teams have qualified for the Asian Cup. But this is not enough; PSSI continues to foster youth competitions to maintain consistent achievements,” PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir said via his personal Instagram account on Sunday (17/11/2024).

He shared this perspective during a conversation with Japanese football legend Yuto Nagatomo at the World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Indonesia and Japan at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta. Thohir, who previously managed Inter Milan, highlighted Nagatomo’s disciplined and hardworking nature, traits that contributed to his success in Italy.

Chairman Erick noted that Japan’s national team ranks 15th in FIFA due to their focus on youth development. PSSI aimed to replicate this by prioritizing youth competitions to nurture talented players for the long term.

PSSI executive Arya Sinulingga echoed this, emphasizing youth training alongside player naturalization to support national teams in the short to medium term.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)