Indonesian National Team Manager Resigns, Cites Overwhelming Responsibilities
A key figure in Indonesian football has stepped down, signaling a potential shift in strategy for the nation’s teams. On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, Sumardji announced his resignation from the position of manager for all age groups of the Indonesian National Team, attributing the decision to the immense pressure and workload associated with the role. He intends to dedicate his efforts to his duties as chairman of the National Team Body (BTN).
Focusing on Long-Term Strategy with the BTN
Sumardji explained that the demands of the manager position extended beyond simply boosting team morale. He was required to be intimately involved in all team activities, a commitment that proved unsustainable alongside his other responsibilities. “I will hand over the duties and responsibilities of the national team manager, whether senior, age group, including the SEA Games, to the Ketum (PSSI, Erick Thohir) so that the national team manager can find the most appropriate, sincere and responsible figure,” he stated at a press conference held at Menara Mandiri in Jakarta.
The move reflects a broader strategy to streamline leadership and concentrate resources on revitalizing Indonesian football. Sumardji emphasized the critical tasks facing the BTN, particularly in supporting the senior national team and all age groups – with the exception of the U-17 team – in their efforts to regain past glory. “BTN’s tasks will be extraordinarily difficult,” he noted, “because this year the senior national team and all age groups… require extra focused tasks and must really be able to restore the glory of the previous national team.”
Addressing Recent Setbacks and Prioritizing Performance
The decision comes after a challenging year for Indonesian national teams, marked by widespread underperformance. Sumardji openly acknowledged the recent failures, specifically apologizing for the team’s inability to qualify for the semifinals of the SEA Games. “I apologize to the public regarding the failure of the SEA Games. We could not qualify for the semifinals, this is difficult and disappointing. I apologize profusely, I will try to be better at BTN,” he said.
He further elaborated on the complexities of the manager’s role, highlighting the constant pressure to deliver results and the need to consider factors extending beyond the technical aspects of the game. “I admit that the manager’s job is very difficult. Because he carries responsibility and has to think about achievements. And when it comes to achievements, he thinks very far, even small things beyond the technical side,” he explained.
By consolidating his focus on the BTN, Sumardji hopes to create an environment conducive to improved performance across all levels of Indonesian football. The aim is to identify and empower new leadership within the national team management structure, fostering a renewed sense of accountability and driving positive change. This strategic realignment underscores a commitment to long-term success and a determination to overcome recent setbacks.
