Persib Bandung legend Atep Rizal believes coach Bojan Hodak is suitable to lead the Indonesian national team, which is currently without a head coach. He praises Hodak's achievements at Persib and the fit of his strategy with Garuda players. Atep urges PSSI to appoint a new coach soon.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Following Patrick Kluivert's departure due to failing to qualify the Indonesian national team for the 2026 World Cup, Persib Bandung legend Atep Rizal recommends Bojan Hodak as a replacement. Atep, who retired two years ago, highlights Hodak's success in leading Persib to two consecutive Indonesian League titles.
In an interview after attending the "Media Cup 2025" coaching clinic at Pendekar Goozone Mini Soccer Cibis Park in South Jakarta on Wednesday, Atep expressed his confidence. "Secara prestasi Bojan Hodak dia memang bagus. Lalu secara karakter cara melatihnya mungkin juga cocok dengan pemain-pemain yang dimiliki oleh tim nasional. Di mana Bojan Hodak menerapkan defense counter cara bermain bolanya," Atep told reporters.
He added, "Dan, pemain-pemain kita saat ini rasanya cocok dengan gaya permainan seperti itu. Kalau menurut saya sah-sah saja selama itu bisa mengangkat tim."
Atep, who played for Persib from 2008 to 2019, also suggested experienced European coaches, such as those employing German-style gegenpressing tactics. "Penekanannya mungkin lebih ke gaya mainnya, mungkin, bisa sama dengan karakter (pemain timnas). Jerman itu gegenpressing. Mungkin itu cocok dengan pemain-pemain yang dimiliki oleh tim nasional kita," he stated.
However, Atep disagrees with PSSI Executive Committee member Arya Sinulingga's statement that there is no rush to appoint a new coach for the March 2026 FIFA Match Day. "Karena memang pelatih butuh pengenalan juga. Bagaimana budaya sepakbola, bagaimana pemain yang dimiliki juga. Kalau saya berharap lebih cepat karena melatih timnas ini butuh waktu," Atep said.