The Shift Toward Specialized Squad Management
The recent absence of Rizky Ridho from the initial training camp (TC) for the Piala AFF 2026 has sparked significant debate among fans. Still, this move likely signals a broader trend in how the Indonesia national team is managed under coach John Herdman: the implementation of specialized squads for different competitive tiers.
Rather than relying on a single static roster, there is a growing strategy to divide the squad based on the nature of the competition. One group is meticulously prepared for high-stakes FIFA Matchdays, while another is tailored for regional tournaments like the Piala AFF.
For a seasoned player like Rizky Ridho, who has amassed 47 to 52 caps, this rotation is less about a loss of form and more about strategic resource management. By allocating core players to FIFA-sanctioned events, the coaching staff can maintain peak performance levels while avoiding burnout.
Navigating the FIFA Calendar Gap
A recurring challenge for the Skuad Garuda is the conflict between regional ambitions and the FIFA international calendar. Because the Piala AFF 2026 does not fall within official FIFA dates, European clubs are not mandated to release their players.
This creates a tactical void where key diaspora players—such as Jay Idzes, Emil Audero, and Calvin Verdonk—may be unavailable. This trend forces the national team to develop a “dual-core” system: a diaspora-heavy lineup for World Cup qualifiers and a local-dominant lineup for Southeast Asian competitions.
This shift ensures that the team remains competitive regardless of who is available, reducing the reliance on a few key individuals and building a more resilient national football ecosystem.
The Rise of Local Talent and “Fast-Tracking”
The “Non-FIFA” windows are becoming the primary gateway for local league players to break into the senior squad. We are seeing a trend of “fast-tracking” promising talents who have excelled in the domestic league.
A prime example is Eksel Runtukahu from Persija Jakarta, who has been granted a senior debut opportunity. By utilizing these tournaments to orbit novel names, John Herdman is effectively expanding the talent pool, ensuring that the transition from youth levels to the senior team is seamless.
This approach benefits the domestic league by increasing the visibility of local players and providing them with high-pressure international experience that can only be gained through active participation in tournaments like the Piala AFF.
Performance Recognition as a Motivator
The introduction of the PSSI Awards 2026 marks a trend toward formalizing player recognition within Indonesia. Awards like “Men’s Player of the Year” (won by Jay Idzes) and “Men’s Young Player of the Year” (won by Marselino Ferdinan) serve as critical psychological drivers for the squad.
For players like Rizky Ridho, these accolades provide motivation that transcends the pitch. Ridho has noted that his PSSI Award success serves as motivation rather than a consolation for missing out on the Puskas Award, highlighting a maturing professional mindset within the national team.
As the PSSI continues to celebrate its 95-year journey, these recognition programs are likely to develop into annual staples, pushing players to maintain high standards of consistency to earn such honors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Rizky Ridho missing from the Piala AFF 2026 TC?
It is predicted that coach John Herdman is rotating the squad, potentially saving Ridho for the June 2026 FIFA Matchday or because his spot in the final squad is already guaranteed.
Who is Eksel Runtukahu?
A Persija Jakarta player who has been given the opportunity for a senior national team debut in the lead-up to the Piala AFF 2026.
Does the Piala AFF affect European-based players?
Yes, because it is not a FIFA-official event, clubs are not required to release players like Jay Idzes or Calvin Verdonk.
What do you think about John Herdman’s strategy of splitting the squad? Is it the right move for the Skuad Garuda? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest Timnas Indonesia updates!
