News Summary:– Indonesia U-20 National Team coach, Nova Arianto, is initiating a two-wave training camp (TC) for player selection to finalize the team framework.
– This marks Nova’s first opportunity to evaluate the potential of a new generation of young talent.
– Eleven trial matches have been scheduled as part of the comprehensive preparation for the upcoming 2027 U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers.
The rigorous selection process for the Indonesia U-20 National Team is currently underway, with head coach Nova Arianto diligently searching for emerging football talents. Among the hopefuls vying for a spot on the squad is Raditya Rahardjo, the son of PSMS Medan assistant coach, Legimin Rahardjo.
Coach Nova Arianto has officially commenced the efforts to solidify the team’s core structure by opening player selections through a two-wave centralized training camp (TC). This crucial agenda represents the initial phase of building a competitive squad destined for international competitions, simultaneously providing Nova with his first comprehensive assessment of the nation’s budding young football stars.
“For this selection process for the U-20 National Team, our primary focus is, once again, on identifying new talents, particularly players born in 2007. As I am relatively new to the U-20 National Team setup, I haven’t had the chance to fully familiarize myself with all the players born in that year,” stated Nova Arianto, as reported by PSSI.org on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
The intensive selection, involving a total of 46 players, is being held at the Garudayaksa Football Academy in Bekasi Regency, running from December 2 to December 10, 2025. The initial phase of the selection took place from December 2-5, while the second phase is scheduled from December 7-10, 2025. During this intricate process, Nova aims to scrutinize more than just mere physical prowess or technical abilities.
“The focus of this training camp is to uncover new talents from the 2007-born cohort. This approach ensures that, in the future, we can truly acquire players whose quality transcends physical, technical, or tactical attributes, and who can seamlessly integrate into the gameplay strategy we intend to implement,” he elaborated, highlighting a holistic approach to player evaluation.
Furthermore, Nova emphatically stressed that player assessment would not be influenced by club background or origin. “I reiterate that I never consider a player’s background. What I convey to the players is my search for individuals who can execute our desired gameplay, align with the philosophy we will establish, and thus demonstrate their absolute best,” remarked the former U-17 National Team coach. He added, “Any player who makes it into the squad must undoubtedly meet our specific requirements, including the standards we’ve set, and we anticipate that all players will perform optimally throughout this training camp.”
Looking at the medium-term strategy, Nova clarified that preparation extends beyond just the current selection. He, in conjunction with PSSI Technical Director Alexander Zwiers, has meticulously planned 11 trial matches. These fixtures are integral to the team’s journey towards the formidable 2027 U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers.
“We have already engaged in discussions with our Technical Director, Coach Alex, regarding the preparation of 11 trial matches before we reach the Asian Cup qualifiers. This includes the AFF Cup, which will serve as a vital part of our trials leading up to the qualification rounds,” Nova confirmed. He also revealed future plans, stating, “Our subsequent training camps are tentatively scheduled for January or possibly March, adhering to the roadmap we have submitted to PSSI. I sincerely hope that everything proceeds smoothly, enabling us to meticulously prepare this team for the upcoming U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers.”
Raditya Rahardjo, Son of Legimin Rahardjo, Joins the Competition
A source of immense pride has emerged from the PSMS Medan family. Raditya Rahardjo, the talented son of PSMS Medan Assistant Coach Legimin Rahardjo, has officially received a call-up for the Indonesia U-20 National Team selection. This invitation marks a pivotal milestone in Raditya’s burgeoning football career, a testament to his rapid development and unwavering dedication to reach the highest echelons of the sport.
Raditya, affectionately known as Radit, currently plies his trade for Persikutim United, a participant in the 2025/2026 Liga Nusantara season. Despite his tender age, Radit has already cultivated a reputation for his mature playing style, unwavering discipline, and technical prowess, which has started to garner national recognition.
For Legimin Rahardjo, the news of Radit’s call-up transcends mere achievement; it signifies a profound trust and responsibility. As a former captain of PSMS and a living legend of North Sumatran football, Legimin intimately understands the arduous journey towards representing the national team. However, as a father, he chooses to place his complete faith in his son’s relentless hard work.
“Yes, alhamdulillah (praise be to God). We just pray, we ask for everyone’s prayers,” expressed Legimin with a tone filled with gratitude when contacted by Tribun Medan on Thursday, December 4, 2025. While undeniably proud, Legimin is careful not to place undue pressure on his son. He firmly believes that Radit’s success in the selection will entirely hinge on his ability and earnest commitment throughout the training camp process.
“As a parent, I certainly hope he makes it. But beyond that, it’s entirely up to him, dependent on his own efforts,” Legimin asserted, emphasizing self-reliance. He further hopes that Radit will fully capitalize on this rare opportunity. In the face of fierce competition among young players, Legimin serves as a reminder that character, diligent effort, and mental fortitude are critical components in the national team coach’s assessment.
“Just maximize it. This is a significant opportunity for him,” he added. Far from basking in his father’s considerable shadow, Radit has carved out his career through sheer hard work from the grassroots level. He began his football journey at the PS Kwarta Youth Academy, competing in various age-group competitions. Before joining Persikutim United, Radit also represented several local clubs, including PSSA Asahan and Persija Youth U-20.
Radit is lauded for his excellent game vision, consistent ball control, and remarkable ability to read the game – attributes rarely found in players of his age. The call-up to the U-20 National Team selection is undoubtedly the initial stride in what promises to be a long and illustrious career for Radit. Should he succeed, he will become an integral part of Indonesia’s youth regeneration efforts, preparing to contend in demanding continental and global competitions.
For the Rahardjo family, the paramount concern is that Radit approaches this momentous occasion with utmost professionalism, unwavering humility, and an enduring commitment to refining his skills. With the steadfast support of his family, club, and the broader North Sumatran football community, Radit is now poised on the correct trajectory to realize his dream of donning the esteemed “Merah Putih” (Red and White) jersey.
Summary
Indonesia U-20 National Team coach Nova Arianto has initiated a two-wave training camp (TC) to select new talents, specifically focusing on players born in 2007. This rigorous process involves 46 players, with Nova emphasizing a holistic evaluation that goes beyond physical and technical attributes, ensuring players can integrate into the team’s strategy regardless of club background. The coach has meticulously planned 11 trial matches, including the AFF Cup, as crucial preparation for the upcoming 2027 U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers.
Among the hopefuls vying for a spot on the squad is Raditya Rahardjo, son of PSMS Medan assistant coach Legimin Rahardjo, who has received a call-up for the U-20 selection. Raditya, currently playing for Persikutim United, is recognized for his mature style, discipline, and technical prowess. His father, while expressing pride, emphasizes the importance of Raditya’s own efforts and unwavering commitment during this significant opportunity.