On a frigid, wintry night, the Krasnodar Academy FC Stadium stood proudly, transformed into a vibrant yet silent witness to the unfolding history, as it welcomed an impressive gathering of 8,000 passionate spectators—an extraordinary attendance record for the highly anticipated RPL U-23 final against the formidable Lokomotiv Moscow U-23 team. The celestial canvas overhead, sprawling with a multitude of twinkling stars, seemed even more enchanting with delicate flakes of light snow drifting slowly down, casting a spell on the scene that not only created a slippery challenge for the players but also evoked a magical ambiance under the brilliant floodlights. This match held special significance as it was the last for Arief, a visionary and revered figure who had devotedly served as the U-23 head coach and was now poised to potentially embark on new and exciting challenges with the senior team. With temperatures chillingly hovering around minus 3°C and a biting wind relentlessly gusting from the Kuban Steppe, every pass made by the players was an exercise in resilience and tenacity.
In the VIP stands, the atmosphere was imbued with a familial spirit that contrasted with the harsh cold outside. Natalia, bundled up yet determined, bravely battled the elements with a hefty bundle of snow, all while clutching a thermos filled with steaming hot ginger tea to ward off the encroaching chill of the night. Meanwhile, Sarah was tirelessly engaged in live-streaming the event on TikTok, her phone lit up as she reported thrilling updates to an audience of 50,000 active viewers, energetically dubbing this historic moment "Indo Coach Final!" In another corner, Sari was enthusiastically distributing vibrant Krasnodar scarves to delighted children, while Liam waved high a spirited banner emblazoned with the words "Daddy UEFA Champ!", a powerful symbol of unwavering support.
Amid all this exuberance, Arief stood resolutely on the sidelines. Clad in the club's iconic red tracksuit, which was damp with the cold sweat of anticipation, he was poised with his whistle in hand, ready to lead his team into battle. By his side were his indispensable team members: Dmitri, his steadfast assistant; Lisa, the ever-reliable strategy analyst; and Dr. Alexei, his trusted physiotherapist, all of whom rallied their support behind Arief's beloved squad, which had trained meticulously to execute the highly effective 4-2-3-1 formation. Guarding the goal was the formidable Ivan Volkov, expertly supported by Nikita Petrov at right back, while the robust central defensive partnership of Giorgi Melashvili and Reza Pratama, reinforced by the fierce Daniil Kuzmin on the left, was primed to thwart any opposing threats. In the heart of the midfield, the determined duo of Timur Safin and Adi Nugroho were ready to dismantle the opponents' advances, alongside the dynamic Dika Ramadhan on the right wing, the creative Luka Ivanishvili orchestrating the attack from the center, the nimble Sergei Volodin on the left wing, and the lethal Maxim Korolev positioned as the central striker to capitalize on any chances that might arise.
The locker room buzzed with a tense yet electric enthusiasm as the players prepared for the pre-match meeting. With heartfelt confidence, Arief passionately motivated his players with fervent words, "Guys, this is our moment! It's time for us to show what we can do in the final match! Lokomotiv are known for their high-pressure tactics, but in these snowy conditions, they will undoubtedly struggle and their stamina will wane in the second half. Let's employ our strategy: unleash high pressure for the first 15 minutes, then pull back and maintain cohesion from the 30 to 60-minute mark, before launching a decisive counterattack in the closing stages of the match. Dika and Sergei, utilize the wings effectively to create scoring opportunities; Reza and Giorgi, be strong anchors with a solid zonal defense; Timur and Adi, stay resolute and unshaken!"
Dika nodded with palpable eagerness, responding quickly, "Coach, I'm primed and ready for another exhilarating solo run like I executed in yesterday's semifinal!" Meanwhile, Reza, filled with determination, added confidently, "I'll shut down their striker! Indo power will rise to the occasion here!" Dmitri also contributed a critical strategy, saying, "Sergei, ensure your set piece delivery to Maxim is inswing, remember our training sessions; we achieved a 75% success rate!"
Yet, when the kick-off whistle pierced through the air, a tense situation unfolded almost immediately. In a shocking twist, within the 4th minute, Lokomotiv found the net, scoring a rapid goal from a corner kick and establishing a 0-1 lead that sent a wave of nervous energy rippling through the VIP stands. In an effort to soothe the anxieties of those around her, Natalia urged everyone to maintain their composure with an encouraging, "Stay calm, everything is still within reach!" Arief swiftly called for a timeout, addressing his players with a commanding voice, "Keep your heads held high, everyone! This is merely a trap they've laid out. It's time for us to apply relentless pressure!"
Shortly after, in a thrilling turn of events during the 12th minute, the Krasnodar team sprang into action. Adi skillfully intercepted the ball in the midfield, setting the stage for a precise long ball from Nikita that found Dika. With remarkable speed, Dika sprinted an impressive 50 meters, skillfully maneuvering past three defenders before expertly delivering a low cross that Maxim eagerly tapped in, leveling the score at 1-1! The eruption of cheers from the crowd reverberated throughout the stadium, engulfing it with excitement. Sarah, seizing the moment, proudly recorded this significant event, shouting with uncontainable delight, "Indo magic! The score is tied at 1-1!"
Liam, riding on the wave of enthusiasm, couldn't contain his excitement either, exclaiming, "Dika, what an absolutely fantastic goal!" As the first half continued, the intensity of play ramped up. Snowfall thickened, further complicating visibility on the pitch. In a nail-biting moment during the 38th minute, the specter of a Lokomotiv penalty loomed large; however, it was ultimately rescinded after VAR intervened, revealing an offside situation—credit to Giorgi's impeccable defensive trap. Capitalizing on this reprieve, the Krasnodar team launched a counterattack, where Sergei executed a perfectly curved free kick, connecting brilliantly with Luka's volley, which astonishingly propelled the team ahead by a score of 2-1! The elation in the VIP stands swelled to a crescendo, with Sari joyfully shouting, "Goal for Georgia-Indo!" In a moment of shared celebration, Natalia embraced Sarah, her eyes brimming with emotion as she declared, "Arief, you are proving to be a genius tonight!"
As the second half commenced, the thrilling intensity of the match continued to escalate. Lokomotiv unleashed a torrent of relentless pressure in the 55th minute, securing an equalizer at 2-2 through a powerful header from a scrappy second ball. Demonstrating both tactical acumen and adaptability, Arief promptly adjusted his strategy, deployed an overload on the wingback, and repositioned Luka into a false 9 role. By the 72nd minute, this clever maneuvering bore fruit—Timur executed a timely tackle which set in motion a sequence initiated by Luka, who delivered a perfect pivot pass to Dika. Dika, seizing the moment, darted forward for a solo run before unleashing a curling shot that rippled the back of the net, swinging the score to 3-2 in favor of Krasnodar!
In an extraordinary dramatic moment during the 88th minute, the chaos of a corner nearly resulted in an equalizer for Lokomotiv. However, Ivan showcased his incredible skills with a breathtaking diving save, preventing disaster. Following this, on a counterattack, Adi delivered an impeccable through ball to Sergei, who then threaded a precise cross for Maxim, allowing him to execute an acrobatic header, subsequently extending their lead to an emphatic 4-2!
As the final whistle blew, waves of jubilant cheers erupted throughout the stadium. The Krasnodar U-23 team proudly claimed the title of RPL CHAMPION! In a spontaneous display of unity and joy, the players hoisted Arief onto their shoulders, parading him majestically around the field. The scene was nothing short of enchanting, with snowflakes mingling with confetti creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. Media outlets buzzed with headlines exclaiming, "Arief Rahman: King of Russian Snow!"
Inside the locker room, the atmosphere remained festive, filled with celebratory vodka mocktails and warm embraces expressing pride and camaraderie. Dika approached Arief, an emotional glimmer in his eye, stating, "Coach, without your guidance, we could never have achieved this title!" Reza chimed in with unbridled enthusiasm, "Come on Indo, let's ascend to the senior RPL together!"
During the post-match press conference, Sergey Galitsky Jr. took center stage, addressing the crowd with gravitas, "Arief, this match was nothing short of a miracle. We are honored to extend an offer for you to join the senior team as an assistant under Karpin. The compensation being a remarkable €400,000 annual salary with the potential pathway to head coach in just 18 months. Welcome aboard as the new assistant in the RPL!"
Exhilaration filled the air as Karpin warmly greeted Arief with a hearty handshake, issuing a welcoming, "Asian warrior, welcome to the team. Together, we will take on Zenit. The combination of your Indonesian tactical brilliance and our Russian resilience will be unstoppable."
The warmth of victory also permeated the VIP box, where Natalia couldn't restrain her glee, exclaiming, "Senior RPL! The penthouse is ready to welcome you!" Meanwhile, Sarah proudly declared, "1 million views! Indo has officially gone global!" Sari added with excitement, "Kids, tonight we feast with a grand satay party!"
Arief, cradling the U-23 trophy, gazed into the camera, his voice filled with emotion as he proclaimed, "From Nailsworth to becoming the champions of Krasnodar—this moment marks not the end, but a promising new beginning. To my family, my team, and to Russia: thank you immensely!"
The celebration extended into a lively party at the nearby villa cluster, where festive dishes such as shashlik and rich chicken soup filled the table, with joyous children parading around with mini trophies that mirrored the grand victory. Arief celebrated this special triumph, stating, "Today we stand as U-23 champions, but tomorrow we aspire to be RPL assistants. The dream has indeed come true—but next season, we must approach the upcoming Zenit derby with utmost respect and seriousness."
Listening intently, Natalia whispered with hopeful optimism, "Could you soon ascend to head coach?" Arief met her inquiry with a mysterious smile, offering a tease, "Patience, my love, the UEFA A final takes precedence next week. A world of greater opportunities lies just beyond the horizon..."
The captivating night concluded with the sound of joyful cheers reverberating through the air, snow falling softly as a fitting backdrop—a perfect culmination to this enchanting chapter, yet with the tantalizing prospect of the enthralling RPL derby that was just around the corner, suggesting that this remarkable story had only just begun.
***
The harsh grip of the Russian winter has finally released its hold, retreating to reveal traces of melting snow that have cleverly converted into a myriad of small, shimmering puddles, which now sprinkle and adorn the streets of Krasnodar, creating a picturesque scene that signifies the arrival of spring. Reflecting on the recent triumph, a significant milestone has been achieved by clinching the prestigious RPL U-23 championship title, propelling Arief into the spotlight as he has now been formally appointed as the assistant coach for the senior team, a role that will take effect in the upcoming July preseason under the guidance of the esteemed Valery Karpin. Yet, before the inevitable pressures and relentless demands of the senior RPL competition crash upon him, like waves upon the shore, there lies an eagerly anticipated and rare two-month family vacation ahead—a golden opportunity to unwind, relax, and catch a breath amidst the whirlwind of football responsibilities. The villa cluster, a vibrant community inhabited by expatriate families, serves as the heart and hub of their activities; weekends are filled with laughter and joy, featuring lively parties, spontaneous short excursions to the breathtaking Black Sea coast, and the careful planning for a promising and exhilarating future.
On the very first morning of their well-deserved vacation, Arief awakened to the delectable aroma wafting through the air, the inviting scent of chicken soup thoughtfully prepared by Sari from the neighboring villa. The terrace of their cluster was alive with energy and bustling activity: Natalia was busy whipping up a batch of fluffy American-style pancakes, lovingly topped with sweet and authentic locally sourced honey, while Sarah was enthusiastically recording a vlog entitled "RPL Champ Family Vacation," skillfully capturing the cheerful atmosphere and cherished togetherness of their family. Nearby, Sari kept a watchful eye on the children, who were happily engrossed in a spirited game of ball on the private mini-field available within the complex. The delightful sounds of laughter and innocent play echoed as Liam and Sofia raced around with their cousins from Indonesia, their joyful antics sending plastic snowballs flying through the air, adding to the already cheerful and vibrant morning.
With affection, Natalia wrapped her arms around Arief from behind, her voice warm and playful as she exclaimed, "Happy holidays, my dear RPL assistant! Can you believe that it's two months without being burdened by tactical boards, right?"
Turning to her, Arief smiled softly and returned her affectionate gesture with a gentle kiss on the forehead, replying, "While there may be no tactical boards present, I can assure you that my mind will remain occupied, contemplating different strategies. Just yesterday, Karpin sent me a WhatsApp message regarding our upcoming pre-season practice against Zenit. But for today, my love, we are all set to embark on a trip to the Black Sea!"
With her camera in hand, Sarah chimed in excitedly, "This road trip is bound to go viral! My 200 thousand followers are eagerly awaiting the video titled 'Krasnodar to Sochi: An Indo Family Adventure'. Sari, have you finished preparing the satay?"
Sari nodded with a radiant smile, "Absolutely! I've prepared 50 chicken satay skewers and 30 goat satay skewers for our feast, not to mention some delicious pirozhki from our Russian neighbors. And don't forget, the kids have brought along their sleeping bags for camping out on the beach under the stars!"
The spacious Mercedes van, provided by the club as a much-appreciated sponsorship bonus, was soon filled to capacity with their luggage, setting the stage for the exciting 5-hour journey to Sochi. As they traveled, the air was filled with the energetic tunes of Russian pop songs intertwined with catchy dangdut remixes, elevating the mood. Liam enthusiastically belted out lyrics as he emulated Boney M's vibrant rendition of the song "Rasputin," while Sofia joyfully danced in her seat, moving to the rhythm of the beloved song "Cinta Luar Biasa." Arief, focused yet relaxed, navigated the winding roads, while Natalia remained alert as the ever-reliable navigator on standby.
As the stunning scenery of the Kuban mountains unfolded before them, Arief found himself lost in deep contemplation, reflecting on his aspirations for the future: "When my two-year assistant contract expires, I will pursue my UEFA Pro license. Attaining this highest-level coaching license will unlock numerous opportunities for me to ascend the ranks and potentially become a head coach at various prestigious clubs around the world. But where will this journey take me next? Should I remain in the RPL? Consider coaching the Indonesian national team? Or chart a new course in the exciting MLS in America?"
Noticing the seriousness etched on Arief's face as he pondered his trajectory, Natalia gently inquired, "What thoughts are swirling around in that mind of yours, dear? You look quite contemplative."
Arief turned to her with a warm smile and replied, "Right now, the UEFA Pro license is at the forefront of my thoughts. The sponsor of our club has promised to cover the costs associated with obtaining the license if we deliver strong performances next season. From my initial journey in Nailsworth to this new role as an assistant in the senior RPL, my objective is to ultimately become a remarkable head coach. But what does that mean for our family? Are you prepared for the possibility of another relocation?"
Grasping Arief's hand with a tender touch, Natalia reassured him, "Whatever decision you make, I'll stand by you, supporting you every step of the way, as long as we are together. But for now, let's simply enjoy our time in Sochi and savor this wonderful vacation!"
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the landscape, they arrived in Sochi. Their luxurious resort on the magnificent Black Sea coast, reserved through a club discount, welcomed them with the promise of comfort and stunning sea views from their private villa. On their first evening, they hosted a lively BBQ on the sandy beach, where a bonfire crackled brightly, infusing the air with the mouthwatering aromas of satay and shashlik, perfectly complemented by refreshing non-alcoholic beer and mango juice imported from Indonesia.
Raising her glass for a spirited toast, Sarah declared, "Here's to our victorious U-23 champions and our dedicated RPL assistant! This vacation serves as a much-needed opportunity to recharge our spirits before we take on Zenit in the impending derby!"
With enthusiasm, Sari added, "The kids are overjoyed to be frolicking on the warm beach—it's such a delightful contrast to the cold snow they were accustomed to! Mas, what updates do you have about your UEFA Pro plans?"
Arief eagerly shared, "This license entails 12 comprehensive modules, covering essential topics such as advanced periodization, AI data analytics, crisis management, and a media masterclass that will prepare me for the multifaceted world of coaching. The course will take place in Cologne, Germany, in a 6-month hybrid format that combines online learning with in-person workshops. Krasnodar is ready to sponsor €50k for my training. If I successfully complete the program, I will earn the coveted UEFA Pro badge, which will qualify me to be a head coach in major football leagues like the EPL, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, or even here in the RPL."
Suddenly, Dika, one of the U-23 players, made a video call to check in, "Coach! How is your vacation treating you? We're currently engaging in independent training, eagerly awaiting your arrival to join the senior team!"
With a joyful expression, Arief responded, "Fantastic, Dika! You'll be transitioning to the senior team next season. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Karpin's playing style, which heavily emphasizes a combination of brutal physicality and effective Russian counter-strategy."
In his innocent curiosity, Liam piped up, "Does Daddy UEFA Pro mean he's going to be super coach?"
Lifting the boy into his arms with a proud smile, Arief replied, "Absolutely! A super coach and, just as importantly, a devoted father."
Their second day was filled with discovery as they ventured into snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Black Sea. Arief seized the moment to teach the children valuable Indonesian swimming techniques, while Natalia shared stories about her own heritage, recounting how her grandfather had been a fisherman in St. Petersburg. Sarah reveled in capturing underwater photos themed "Expat mermaids!", while Sari busily prepared a delightful picnic featuring fried rice adorned with an array of fresh seafood.
As the afternoon drew near, they embarked on a hike to the summit of Mount Akhun. Standing at the peak, they were greeted by breathtaking views of the Crimea stretching into the horizon, accompanied by a gently refreshing breeze that brushed against their skin. Gathered together on a large rock, Arief took a moment to capture the picture-perfect scene with his family, stating, "This vacation is absolutely ideal. Yet the thought of pursuing the UEFA Pro license has me weighing several options: Should I consider a long-term commitment to Russia? Or perhaps there's an invitation to coach the Indonesian national team? And what if we explored the MLS journey for Natalia?"
Sarah replied enthusiastically, "The Indonesian national team will undoubtedly honor you! You are a source of great pride for Indonesia."
Natalia interjected thoughtfully, "The MLS would bring me closer to my American roots. However, we have truly come to consider Russia our home, particularly with the beautiful villa that was passed down from my grandfather."
Sari chimed in, "Whatever choice we make, as long as we remain nestled in a vibrant cluster like this, it's bound to be wonderful!"
The excitement peaked on the third night with a beach dance party that served as the grand finale of their vacation: the energetic song "Kalinka" creatively mixed with the lively "Goyang Dumang," while Arief danced joyfully with his family, his mind momentarily free from worries and unburdened by thoughts of the future.
Back in Krasnodar, the magic of their vacation lingered as it continued with an array of delightful activities: visiting the enchanting Krasnodar flower festival, hosting weekly BBQ gatherings within the cluster, and dedicating time to volunteer as a coach in a local children's camp. Arief began to immerse himself in the study of the UEFA Pro module online, his interest piqued by "The AI scouting module—it's incredibly fascinating!"
With pride shining through her eyes, Natalia remarked, "Honey, you are truly radiating ambition and potential. This vacation has completely recharged your spirit, igniting a fire within you."
As their vacation drew to a close, a call from Karpin came through, "Arief, it's time to kick off pre-season preparations. Our first friendly match is set against Zenit. And remember to bring some of that vibrant 'flare' from Indonesia with you, alright!"
Standing on the balcony of their villa and gazing out at the vast, undulating ocean, Arief murmured quietly to himself, "The journey toward obtaining my UEFA Pro license has officially begun. The dream of becoming a head coach is moving closer to becoming a tangible reality..."
As the cherished vacation came to an end, it not only left memories to last a lifetime but also served as a tantalizing glimpse into the intense and action-packed RPL season ahead—complete with tense derbies, the bustling transfer market, and the potential for conflicts and strong personalities forged under Karpin's charismatic yet firm leadership.
***
The family vacation, which had been a delightful retreat spent in the picturesque city of Krasnodar, is now sadly approaching its final day, coinciding serendipitously with the imminent arrival of the much-anticipated RPL senior preseason, which is known for its rigorous and demanding preparation schedule. This busy preseason will feature an intense series of trials wherein various formidable European teams, notably including the well-respected B reserve teams from both Ajax and Porto, will be challenging the locals. At this moment, the atmosphere enveloping the villa complex— primarily inhabited by a community of expatriates— is serene and tranquil. Here, everyday life feels akin to paradise: vibrant spring flowers bloom prolifically, painting the communal gardens with bursts of color, children can be seen energetically playing soccer, their laughter echoing joyfully as they dash across the well-manicured lawns from one house to the next, while the air is suffused with the tantalizing aroma of Madura satay sizzling away, lovingly prepared by Sari, intertwined with the smoky scent of Russian shashlik being grilled by Natalia just nearby. On the main terrace, Arief sits with an air of focused determination; his laptop is open, displaying on the screen the initial UEFA Pro module that centers around the theme of AI scouting. Yet, despite the engaging work laid out before him, his thoughts drift far afield, occupied by the daunting challenges posed by the demanding preseason schedule meticulously orchestrated by Karpin. This rigorous program requires the team to engage in 10 friendly matches over a supremely condensed timeline of just 3 weeks, with a pronounced emphasis on melding Russia's signature physical prowess with the stylish flair of Indonesian play.
That quiet morning, just as Arief was caught in this whirlwind of thoughts, his phone suddenly broke the stillness, ringing twice in rapid succession—first displaying the official Kremlin number +7, followed by a message from WhatsApp flashing the recognizable logo of the Indonesian PSSI Sports Minister. Intrigued and a bit apprehensive, Arief decided to prioritize the call from the Kremlin, his heart racing as he answered. On the line, he was greeted by a formal voice from a Russian official, who introduced himself with a cordial tone: "Mr. Rahman? This is the Ministry of Sports of the Russian Federation. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your recent victory as the U-23 champion. The Director General of Sports is keenly interested in meeting with you tomorrow in Moscow, to discuss your vital contributions to the national program 'Football for Unity'—a significant initiative focusing on integrating foreign coaches into Russian academies."
Arief froze in disbelief, and as if on cue, Natalia appeared with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee that filled the air with its inviting scent: "Who was on the phone? That sounded like a rather important call!"
Without missing a beat, he replied, "It was the Russian Ministry of Sports! They've invited me to attend a meeting in Moscow tomorrow regarding a program called 'Football for Unity'—likely a national initiative designed to recruit foreign coaches to help develop and refine young Russian talents post-sanctions."
Natalia's eyes widened with shock and excitement, her face lighting up with enthusiasm: "Wow! This is incredible! You're just beginning your journey as an assistant in the RPL, and now you're being given an opportunity at the national level? You simply must go!"
However, just as Arief was beginning to process the gravity of the invitation, a message arrived from PSSI through WhatsApp: "Mr. Arief Rahman, S.Pd. We are pleased to officially invite you to participate in the upcoming 2026 National Coaching Clinic. The theme of the event will revolve around 'Hybrid Tactics: From the EPL to the RPL.' Scheduled for June 15 in Jakarta, this prestigious clinic is sponsored by the government and PSSI, and it will host 500 coaches drawn from Leagues 1-3 along with the national team staff. We eagerly await your confirmation?"
Without wasting any time, Arief promptly took a screenshot of the important message and shared it with his family group chat. Almost immediately, Sarah, his sister, replied with a burst of excitement in her voice message: "Bro! Are you serious? The minister invited you personally? This could potentially go viral across the nation! You are hailed as Indonesia's hero in Russia—this clinic could pave the way for you to become a strong contender for the national team coach!"
No sooner had Sarah sent her message than Sari chimed in: "Yes! You must come! The kids are also missing the vibrant atmosphere of Jakarta. I can definitely take care of the tickets for our family!"
With a delighted grin, Natalia added: "Two elite-level invitations both arriving simultaneously! One from the Russian national level and the other from the Indonesian minister! Your ambition is truly inspiring and skyrocketing right now!"
Still struggling to grasp the full extent of these developments, Arief decided to reach out once more to the PSSI representative to confirm his attendance: "Thank you, Minister, for the gracious invitation. I would be delighted to participate. Regarding the hybrid theme connecting RPL and Indonesia, I shall prepare the necessary material."
The family then convened for an impromptu meeting on their terrace, seating themselves around a round table set with fragrant ginger tea and delectable Russian croissants. Meanwhile, young Liam excitedly drew a picture labeled "Daddy Moscow!" on a piece of paper, while Sofia held onto a mini soccer ball proudly inscribed with "Krasnodar."
As the family meeting began, Arief shared the remarkable updates: "There are two astonishing developments at the close of our vacation. Firstly, I received a call inviting me to meet with the Russian Ministry tomorrow, likely concerning a significant program aimed at involving Asian coaches in the reconstruction of the Russian junior team. Secondly, I've been invited to attend a coaching clinic on June 15 in Jakarta, where I have a personal invitation from the Minister. However, the preseason overseen by Karpin kicks off on July 1—I'm at a loss for how to juggle this packed schedule!"
Natalia, ever the enthusiastic supporter, exclaimed: "The opportunity in Russia should take precedence—it's much closer after all, and they have a private jet ready! As for the clinic in Jakarta, I'm wholly supportive of it; the push from our domestic scene is incredibly strong. But what could all of this signify? Is Russia envisioning you in a director role for their national academy? Or are the Indonesian officials looking to recruit you for the national team coaching position?"
With boundless excitement, Sarah chimed in: "This clinic in Jakarta could truly be a major spotlight for PSSI! I've heard whisperings that Shin Tae-yong might step down—could this mean you could be in contention for the national team coach role? I even created a TikTok video about the U-23 championship final, and it managed to hit 500,000 views!"
Sari took careful notes and proposed: "The logistics seem straightforward: You can dedicate one day to Moscow, and then three days for Jakarta. The kids would also love to travel to Jakarta, especially since school will be on break. I can assist with preparing the presentation materials for Indonesia."
Their discussion grew spirited and animated. Arief elucidated: "The meeting in Russia is expected to be confidential—it's centered on the 'Football for Unity' program initiated in the wake of UEFA sanctions, where there is a genuine need for creative coaches from Asia. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, Minister Dito Ariotedjo personally contacted me via WhatsApp regarding the hybrid tactics theme, which aligns perfectly with my area of expertise."
Innocently curious, Liam asked: "Is Daddy the king in Russia or in Indonesia?"
Laughter erupted around the group, lightening the mood. Natalia interjected playfully: "Both! But even more pressing is our curiosity about what precisely Russia is offering. Could it involve citizenship? Or perhaps there's an ulterior motive behind the call from the Indonesian national team?"
Arief concluded the family discussion with a sense of resolution: "Tomorrow in Moscow, I'm sure I'll garner clearer answers. As for Jakarta in June, perhaps this is merely a prelude to greater opportunities presented by the national team?"
The following morning, Arief found himself aboard a private jet bound for Moscow, a swift journey completed in just one hour. Upon arrival, he was greeted by the grand and imposing Ministry of Sports building, along with the opulent executive room adorned with polished marble accents. Director General Ivan Petrov welcomed him cordially: "Arief Rahman, your exceptional achievements as the U-23 champion have truly impressed us. Your UEFA A certification is remarkable. We are in the process of launching the 'Unity Academy'—this initiative aims to bring together 20 foreign coaches to establish 50 new academies across Russia. We would be honored to have you at the helm of our Asian program, focusing on recruiting talent from both Indonesia and Georgia to enhance our football scene. A budget of €5 million per annum is readily available, and we will provide a complimentary apartment within the Kremlin."
Surprised and humbled, Arief expressed, "This is indeed a prestigious honor! But what will become of my senior contract with the RPL?"
Ivan was quick to reassure him: "The program operates on a hybrid model—70% will focus on the RPL, while the remaining 30% will be dedicated to the Unity initiative. Furthermore, this could pave the way for a head coach position at Zenit or another prominent club in Moscow within a three-year horizon."
Upon returning to the warmth of Krasnodar, the family eagerly convened, and Arief enthusiastically reported the developments: "Russia wants me to take charge of a national-level academy program! They're offering a €5 million budget along with an apartment in the Kremlin!"
The family erupted into joyful cheers, each sharing in the excitement. Sarah beamed: "This is globally significant! And the clinical session in Jakarta will surely serve as bait set by PSSI to entice you towards the national team!"
With a thoughtful expression, Natalia asked, "Which opportunity holds more weight for you? The RPL, the Russian academy, or the Indonesian national team role?"
Arief actively engaged in the conversation, emphasizing, "Making a decision right now is premature. I suspect the clinic meeting in June might shed more light on what course to take."
Their vacation culminated in a warm celebration among the family cluster: a bonfire was built, around which they sang cheerfully, their voices merging with a lively mix of "Kalinka-Dangdut Remix" songs. Arief raised his glass in a celebratory toast: "This vacation, marked by immense surprises, has undeniably opened a wealth of opportunities, between the national-scale prospect in Russia and the meaningful invitation from the Indonesian minister!"
As Arief gazed up at the twinkling night sky, a contemplative thought crossed his mind, prompting him to ponder: "Is this the universe's way of indicating I'm destined to become a head coach? Should my loyalties lie with the RPL, the Indonesian national team, or the Russian Unity initiative? Even as Karpin's preseason training looms on the horizon, I can't shake the feeling that doors to an array of global opportunities are wide open, inviting me to step through."
And thus, naturally, questions began to swirl within his mind: What revelations will unfold at the clinic in Jakarta? How will the potential conflict between the National Team and the RPL be navigated? And could discussions concerning Russian citizenship play a role in shaping Arief's future coaching career?