Indonesian national team defender Asnawi Mangkualam has clarified the captain's armband issue during the match against China in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. He denied any dressing room problems and affirmed coach Shin Tae-yong's decision to keep him as main captain. This response addresses comments from PSSI executive Arya Sinulingga.
In October 2024, the Indonesian national team lost 1-2 to China in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for Asia. The defeat sparked rumors of dressing room discord, particularly regarding the captain's armband worn by Asnawi Mangkualam, while Jay Idzes was said to be the intended wearer.
PSSI executive Arya Sinulingga, in a podcast, stated that Jay Idzes should have worn the armband for that match. "It's impossible for Jay Idzes to be replaced without any issues," Arya said, fueling further speculation.
Asnawi, the 26-year-old Port FC defender, responded via Instagram Story on December 11, 2025. He explained that he had long intended to pass the armband to another player, even before the Asian Cup. "Personally, I've long intended to give the captaincy to another player even before the Asian Cup," he wrote.
Asnawi had discussed with assistant coach Nova Arianto about handing it to Jordi Amat, but Nova said Shin Tae-yong still trusted him. Similar efforts were made for Jay Idzes before the Australia match at GBK. After dinner, Asnawi gathered Jay Idzes, Sandy Walsh, Thom Haye, and Rizky Ridho to discuss the main captain and deputy. However, Shin Tae-yong kept Asnawi as main captain and Jay as deputy.
"We discussed who the main captain and deputy would be. But Coach Shin still entrusted the main captaincy to me and Jay as deputy," Asnawi clarified. He emphasized that all present players could confirm this timeline and questioned why the old issue was being revived. "Why does it seem like I'm always cornered? Why keep discussing the China match?" he asked Arya.
This clarification aims to quell rumors and maintain team harmony.
