Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto Takes the Helm: A New Era for Indonesian U-17 Football
Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto is set to develop into the head coach of the Indonesian U-17 national team, preparing for the upcoming AFF U-17 Championship and the 2026 AFC U-17 Asian Cup. This appointment marks a significant step for the young squad as they gear up for crucial international competitions.
Transition of Leadership
Currently, Nova Arianto is leading the U-17 team through a pair of friendly matches against China on February 8th and 11th, 2026. Arianto’s role is temporary, as he has also been appointed to manage the Indonesian U-20 national team. Following these matches, Kurniawan will assume full control of the U-17 team, having already joined the coaching staff in a supporting capacity.
PSSI’s Confidence in Kurniawan
Arya Sinulingga, a member of the PSSI Executive Committee, stated that the organization has been consulting with Coach Nova regarding recommendations for the team. These suggestions will be presented to the PSSI Exco for approval. Sinulingga also noted Kurniawan’s integration into the U-17 coaching team, signaling a smooth transition of leadership.
A Coach with International Experience
Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously managed the Malaysian club Sabah and also worked with the youth team of Como 1907 in Italy. Upon returning to Indonesia, he has coached several teams, including PSPS Riau. Sinulingga highlighted Kurniawan’s experience, stating, “From an experience standpoint, I consider Kurniawan is also good. He was with Como 1907 and other teams.”
What This Means for Indonesian Youth Football
The appointment of a coach with international exposure like Kurniawan is a positive sign for the development of youth football in Indonesia. His experience in different footballing environments can bring new perspectives and methodologies to the U-17 program.
Focus on Mental and Tactical Preparation
As the team prepares for the friendly matches against China, the focus is on both mental and tactical preparation. This dual approach is crucial for building a resilient and strategically sound team capable of competing at the highest levels. Recent reports indicate the U-17 team is prioritizing these aspects ahead of the China matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What competitions will Kurniawan lead the U-17 team in?
Kurniawan will lead the team in the AFF U-17 Championship and the 2026 AFC U-17 Asian Cup.
Who was the previous coach of the U-17 team?
Nova Arianto was the temporary coach, also managing the U-20 team.
What is Kurniawan’s previous coaching experience?
He has managed Sabah (Malaysia), Como 1907’s youth team (Italy), and PSPS Riau (Indonesia), among others.
Where can I find more information about the Indonesian U-17 team?
You can find updates on the official PSSI website and through Indonesian sports news outlets like Detik.com.
Did you know? Kurniawan’s experience with Como 1907 provides him with valuable insights into European football development philosophies.
Pro Tip: Following the U-17 team’s progress and the implementation of Kurniawan’s strategies will be key to understanding the future direction of Indonesian youth football.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Indonesian U-17 team’s journey. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
