The PSSI has officially announced Nova Arianto as the head coach for the Indonesian U-20 National Team. This significant appointment was conveyed by Sumardji, the Chairman of BTN (Badan Tim Nasional or National Team Body), during a press conference held in Jakarta on Thursday, November 20.
Arianto brings a strong track record to his new role, having previously served as the coach for the U-17 National Team. Under his guidance, the squad demonstrated remarkable performance, successfully reaching the final rounds of both the prestigious Asian Cup and the World Cup, showcasing his prowess in youth football development.
According to Sumardji, Nova Arianto possesses exceptional capabilities as a coach for young teams, making him an ideal candidate for this position. The decision to appoint him as the U-20 National Team coach was also made in alignment with the recommendation from Technical Director Alexander Zwiers and received full backing from the PSSI’s Executive Committee (Exco). Sumardji elaborated, “For the men’s U-20 National Team, specifically, this decision aligns with the recommendation and proposal from Technical Director Alexander Zwiers. All Exco members have collectively agreed to entrust Nova Arianto with the full duties and responsibilities for coaching the men’s U-20 National Team.”
Present at the same press conference, Nova Arianto expressed profound gratitude for the trust placed in him by the football federation. He affirmed his readiness to diligently fulfill his new responsibilities as the Indonesian U-20 National Team coach.
Arianto remarked, “I extend my sincere thanks to PSSI and its entire leadership for this opportunity, for a role that is undoubtedly a significant milestone in my career. I am grateful to PSSI for giving me this responsibility, and I will always strive to do my best for the U-20 squad.” He further elaborated on his core philosophy, stating, “Since my appointment as U-17 coach in 2024, my primary objective has always been to pave the way for these young players to reach the senior National Team. While qualifying for the World Cup or the Asian Cup is a valuable part of the journey, the overarching goal is to ensure our young talents can eventually contribute to the senior national squad.”
Summary
The PSSI has officially appointed Nova Arianto as the head coach for the Indonesian U-20 National Team. This decision was announced by Sumardji, Chairman of BTN, and stemmed from a recommendation by Technical Director Alexander Zwiers, fully endorsed by the PSSI’s Executive Committee. Arianto brings a strong track record, having previously guided the U-17 National Team to the final rounds of both the Asian Cup and the World Cup.
Nova Arianto expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and affirmed his readiness to fulfill his new responsibilities. He stated that his primary objective is to develop young players to eventually contribute to the senior National Team. Qualifying for major tournaments is considered a valuable part of this overarching goal.