Asnawi Mangkualam Not Called Up to the Indonesian National Team Despite Being Recovered, What’s the Reason?

Kapanlagi.com - The coach of the Indonesian national team, Shin Tae-yong, recently provided a surprising explanation regarding Asnawi Mangkualam's absence in the preparations for the 2026 World Cup Qualification in the Asian zone. This decision certainly raised many questions, considering Asnawi is the team captain and one of the key pillars in defense.

On Saturday, November 2, 2024, Shin revealed that Asnawi suffered a hamstring injury that was feared could affect his performance. However, the public was shocked when Asnawi was actually played by Port FC in a Thai League match against Bangkok United on the same day.

After attending a press conference at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) on Thursday, November 7, Shin Tae-yong again clarified the decision not to include Asnawi in the list of players to face Japan and Saudi Arabia.

1. Shin Tae-yong's Reaction to Asnawi's Injury

Shin Tae-yong revealed that Asnawi's hamstring injury was a major consideration in the selection of the national team squad. This injury is known to be difficult to predict, so Shin chose not to take any risks.

"Asnawi is indeed experiencing a hamstring injury, and although he stated he is ready, we have to be cautious," Shin told reporters, as reported by Bola.net. He emphasized that this injury could flare up during the match, which would certainly be detrimental to the team.

"Hamstring injuries are tricky; problems can suddenly arise mid-game, so we decided not to call him up," he added. This decision was made as a precaution ahead of the crucial match against Japan on November 15, 2024, at SUGBK, Jakarta, followed by a clash against Saudi Arabia in Group C of the Qualifiers. Now, with Asnawi's absence, Shin must devise a solid strategy to strengthen the backline of the Indonesian national team.

2. 27 Players Called by Shin Tae-yong

Shin Tae-yong has announced the list of 27 players ready to defend the Indonesian National Team in the battle for the 2026 World Cup Qualification. Among the selected names are key figures such as Maarten Paes who will guard the goal, as well as the tough duo Jay Idzes and Jordi Amat in the back line.

Not to be missed, young star Marselino Ferdinan in the midfield is expected to provide a fresh touch. Interestingly, this South Korean coach also called up several players who are active in Europe, such as Thom Haye from Almere City and Eliano Reijnders from PEC Zwolle, adding to the team's competitiveness with international standards.

The combination of experience and young talent makes this squad even more promising. The matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia will be crucial moments for Indonesia to showcase their skills and ensure their path in the Qualification.

The presence of players from European leagues is expected to enhance the team's performance and lead Indonesia to achieve greater success.

3. Complete List of Indonesian National Team Players

In order to face the tough challenges in the qualification phase, this team is preparing a squad that combines local talent and international experience.

In goal, Maarten Paes from FC Dallas is ready to guard the net, while in defense, the solid combination of Jay Idzes and Jordi Amat will form a strong defensive wall.

In midfield, talented players like Thom Haye and Nathan Tjoe-A-On are ready to dictate the game, while up front, sharp strikers like Witan Sulaeman and Egy Maulana will strive to break through the opponent's defense.

With this diverse composition, the team is optimistic about competing and achieving the best results in the upcoming qualifiers.

4. Why Was Asnawi Mangkualam Not Called Up by the Indonesian National Team?

Coach Shin Tae-yong was forced to leave Asnawi Mangkualam out of the squad, even though the player had declared himself ready for battle.

Unfortunately, the lingering hamstring injury is feared to disrupt the team's performance during matches, so this decision was made to maintain the stability of the game.

5. Will Asnawi Mangkualam still be called up for the next match?

Shin Tae-yong emphasized that excellent physical readiness is key in determining players for the upcoming match, especially depending on the recovery process from injuries they have experienced.

6. Who are the key players called up to face Japan and Saudi Arabia?

In the latest call-up, the national team coach has appointed several key players ready to make an impact, including Maarten Paes who will guard the goal, the solid duo of Jay Idzes and Jordi Amat in defense, and young star Marselino Ferdinan who will dictate the rhythm of the game in midfield.

7. When will the Indonesian national team compete against Japan and Saudi Arabia?

The Indonesian national team is ready to face a big challenge with an exciting duel against Japan on November 15, 2024, at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK).

Not only that, after battling the blue samurai, they will also compete against Saudi Arabia at the same venue, promising spectacular action and unforgettable moments for the football fans at home!

(kpl/rmt)