Persija Jakarta Builds New Generation Under Shin Tae-yong

Persija Jakarta is embarking on a significant regeneration process for the 2026/2027 season, aiming to build a new generation of players.

The club's U-20 team recently clinched the Elite Pro Academy championship, providing a strong foundation for emerging talents to be promoted to the senior squad. This influx of young players will be integrated with seasoned national-level players, creating a bridge during this transitional phase.

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Of course, I am very enthusiastic about Coach Shin Tae-yong's presence at Persija.

The arrival of South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong is expected to accelerate this process. His mandate is to effectively combine the energy of the young prospects with the experience of the established players, ensuring Persija remains competitive throughout the season.

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If in the national team we gather only for tournaments, while at Persija we will have very long training and competitions.

Witan Sulaeman, a 24-year-old forward who previously worked with Shin Tae-yong in the Indonesian national team, is poised to be a crucial figure. He expressed enthusiasm for the new coaching setup, noting the difference between club and national team dynamics. "If in the national team we gather only for tournaments, while at Persija we will have very long training and competitions," Witan stated, highlighting his readiness to help younger teammates adapt.

Young talents like 21-year-old midfielder Rayhan Hannan, who had a standout season with eight goals and seven assists, have had their contracts extended. Hannan, who considers Jakarta his home, is eager to contribute to the team's title ambitions. Another prospect is defender Fabio Azka Irawan, a key player in the U-20 championship win, who hopes to secure a regular spot in the first team. Fabio's distinctive long throw-ins, honed during his time with the U-16 national team, are seen as a unique asset.

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Persija and Jakarta have always been my home because I am a child of Jakarta.

Witan believes the integration of young players will bolster squad depth, with experienced players ready to mentor them. "I think it's very good because it can help squad depth. I have played abroad, so maybe I can help them adapt faster, both on and off the field," he said. This blend of a new coach, academy graduates, and experienced figures like Witan fuels Persija's ambition to compete at the top of Liga 1.

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I think it's very good because it can help squad depth. I have played abroad, so maybe I can help them adapt faster, both on and off the field.