President Jokowi praises the selection process of Erick Thohiri for the U-17 national team

Klikwarta.com, Bandung – President Joko Widodo appreciated the selection process of Erick Thohiri and PSSI in selecting the top 22 players who are ready to represent Indonesia in the U-17 FIFA World Cup.

The President stated this while visiting the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in the Bandung region of West Java on Wednesday (December 7). During the visit, President Jokowi also saw the results of the renovation of the stadium, a candidate for the U-17 World Cup venue.

“I really appreciate the selection process of the U-17 national team players, which is carried out in 10 cities. Today there are 187 players in West Java, later also in other cities to give opportunities to the youth. I appreciate PSSI under the leadership of Erick Thohir, and it has changed for the better”, said President Jokowi.

During the visit, the President was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) General Manager Erick Thohir, PUPR Minister, Basuki Hadimuljono, Menpora, Ario Bimo Nandito Ariotedjo, West Java Governor, Ridwan Kamil and Cipta Karya CEO Diana Kusumastuti.

Erick Thohir emphasized that Indonesia’s ability as the host of the U-17 FIFA World Cup must also be demonstrated by preparing a strong national team. In order to achieve the goal set by the president, the national team must be able to compete with 23 other national teams.

“Previously, the president asked to reach the final. That is the highest goal. That’s why we are specifically looking for the best 22 players, we use the Garuda Talents program. Selection for the players of the Indonesian U-17 national team. This program includes 10 players. League 1 clubs from different cities to act as hosts. selection and also CTO of PSSI as well as Asprov to find the best talent across Indonesia,” said Erick Thohir.

Furthermore, Erick added that the Garuda Talent line-up also included former national players who now act as coaches and talent scouts. Names such as Bima Sakti U-17 national team coach and Rully Nerre, Budi Sudarsono, Firman Utina, Firmansyah and Indriyanto are involved in following the selection of potential young players selected for 12 League 1 clubs.

“Garuda Talent is a cooperation program between League 1 clubs, PSSI and Asprov. The League 1 club invites potential players according to the needs of the coach and prepares the technical selection matters. Then PSSI becomes the coordinator and talent scout and Asprov together with the technical. the manager invites the SSB of the area -players, clubs or schools and assist. We will create synergies to find the best 22 players,” he continued.

According to Erik, Garuda’s talent has become a new benchmark for finding the best Indonesian team. Therefore, all the best specifications are the most important requirements. Starting with a strong mentality, body position with 170-185 cm height, muscular ability, skill, cognitive, disciplined, excellent coordination to VO2max, average 60-65.

“We use a high passing value. This is a challenge because after all this is the first FIFA World Cup in Indonesia, so we have to make maximum preparations for our U-17 Timmas team. Our players must have accurate passing and strong ball delivery. , and sharp shooting. Garuda Muda must not be unable to compete. We must have courage and believe that we can compete,” he said.

(User: Arif)