Madura United Not Yet at Maximum Condition, Admits Coach Ze Gomes

New Madura United coach Ze Gomes has honestly assessed his squad, admitting they are not yet in peak condition after just two days of preseason training. The Portuguese tactician acknowledged that player fitness and game touch are still far from perfect, but he remains optimistic.

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The first training was very enjoyable, but I know the players are not at their maximum yet. But we still have a long time to prepare.

"The first training was very enjoyable, but I know the players are not at their maximum yet. But we still have a long time to prepare," Gomes said, as quoted by the I.League's official website. His primary focus is to utilize the ample time available to prepare the team for the 2026/27 season, which kicks off in September.

Gomes, who previously coached Arema FC, is targeting the establishment of a solid playing foundation and enhanced player physical conditioning during the preseason. He views the extended preparation period as a valuable asset for building team strength. "For today, I was happy enough to see the initial training. Going forward, we will maximize the available time to build a more prepared team," he stated.

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For today, I was happy enough to see the initial training. Going forward, we will maximize the available time to build a more prepared team.

Expressing his pleasure at joining Madura United, Gomes also extended high praise to the club's management for placing their full trust in him to lead the team. Madura United manager Umar A. Wachdin echoed the sentiment, urging the coaching staff and players to make the most of the time for a more competitive season. "We hope the available time can be maximized well to face the new season," Umar added.

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We hope the available time can be maximized well to face the new season.