Soekarno-Hatta Airport, recognized as one of the busiest transport hubs in Southeast Asia and hailed as the main gateway to the bustling capital city of Jakarta, was alive with a vibrant whirlwind of activity as people engaged in their various arrivals, departures, and reunions, a scene that mirrored the dynamic spirit of the region. However, for Arief, a distinguished and seasoned football coach who had just arrived after an exhaustive journey across several time zones, this lively hustle and bustle felt not merely like an ordinary airport commotion but rather like an enthusiastic and warm embrace from his own beloved hometown. As he stepped out of the arrival terminal, he was met with a heavy blanket of humid tropical air that enveloped him like a comforting shawl, providing a dramatic contrast to the biting cold temperatures he had endured in Krasnodar, Russia, which still lingered deep within his bones, reminding him of the stark differences between the two places he loved. Among the throngs of people anxiously awaiting their loved ones, a large and eye-catching banner unfurled before him, proclaiming "WELCOME ARIEF RAHMAN - NATIONAL COACHING CLINIC 2026," held aloft by several enthusiastic PSSI staff members and eager journalists who were quick to report on and document his arrival. Standing prominently among the crowd was Sari, her face illuminated with a contagious smile, flanked by a group of excited children, all of whom were running around her energetically, adding to the warmth and heartfelt familiarity of the atmosphere.
"Mas! Finally!" Sari exclaimed, her voice imbued with palpable relief as she rushed forward to envelop him in a tight embrace, a gesture that was immediately followed by enthusiastic hugs from the children, who seemed equally thrilled to see him. "Have you all really come here all the way from Russia?" she asked, her curiosity piqued by the prospect of their long journey.
Arief chuckled heartily, affectionately ruffling the hair of his eldest child, reflecting a sense of joy and affection. "Natalia and Liam-Sofia will be joining us tomorrow. Meanwhile, Sarah has some final touches to make on the vlog from Krasnodar. But this is an important clinic, Sar—so I need to keep my focus entirely on it."
Almost instantly, reporters began to swarm around him, their microphones thrust forward eagerly as they sought to capture his responses. "Mr. Arief! How does it feel to return home as the champion of the Russian U-23 league? Are you prepared to share your expertise and knowledge gained from your time in England and the RPL with the Indonesian football community?"
With a warm and friendly smile firmly planted on his face, Arief spoke in a firm and confident tone that conveyed a sense of seriousness and determination. "It's absolutely wonderful to be back home. I am eager to share all the valuable knowledge I have acquired during my time in England, as well as my experiences in Russia, including my UEFA A certification. This clinic will not solely be a theoretical discussion—there will be ample opportunities for practical training that will focus on hybrid pressing strategies and how to adapt from snowy conditions to living and playing in a tropical climate. Our goal is to collaboratively elevate the standards and quality of our football from League 1 all the way down to League 3."
Soon thereafter, an official PSSI vehicle arrived to transport them to a luxurious hotel that had been meticulously prepared in South Jakarta. During the ride, Sari animatedly shared the latest insights and updates she had gathered. "Minister Dito is actually watching this entire event live, and there are 800 participants expected, including coaches from Liga 1 teams like Persebaya, Persib, and Bali United, as well as representatives from Liga 2 and 3, along with national team staff members. This event is titled 'Hybrid Tactics: From Snow to Tropics' and will take place tomorrow at the training ground of the GBK Stadium."
Arief listened intently, nodding seriously as he realized just how significant this event was to him and to the future of Indonesian football. "That sounds great. I'll prepare the material tonight. But… have you heard anything about developments with PSSI?" he asked, his tone shifting to one of concern.
Sari responded cautiously, her voice dropping to a whisper, "Well, Shin Tae-yong, the current coach, has his contract set to expire at the end of the year. Erick Thohir mentioned that he is on the lookout for 'fresh blood' who possess experience in Europe. You are considered a strong candidate."
Arief fell into a contemplative silence, staring intently at the motorway sprawling out ahead, lost in thoughts about potential opportunities. "Right now, I need to concentrate on the clinic first. Let's not get ahead of ourselves with speculation."
***
The following morning, the Gelora Bung Karno Training Centre was a hive of activity, filled to capacity with around 800 coaches, journalists, and eager citizens who had traveled from every corner of the archipelago, from the lush green hills of Sabang in the west to the fascinating landscapes of Merauke in the east. The main stage loomed majestically, adorned with a massive LED screen that heralded the main event with bright visuals. Minister Dito Ariotedjo opened the programming with palpable pride radiating from him. "Welcome Arief Rahman—a true son of the nation who has triumphed over the rigors of the cold winds in Russia! Today, we are all set to learn invaluable lessons that bridge English football and the RPL!"
The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers, their enthusiastic support reverberating throughout the venue. Arief stepped onto the stage, donning a sleek black tracksuit designed through a collaboration between PSSI-Indo and Krasnodar, exuding confidence and readiness. "Assalamualaikum. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Minister and the entire PSSI organisation. I am here, eager to share what I have learned from three different continents: the pressing techniques I employed at Nailsworth, a club situated in the ninth tier of the English league pyramid; the hybrid style that propelled the Krasnodar U-23 team to championship glory; and insights gleaned from my UEFA A certification."
The first session commenced, focusing on the topic of "High Pressing Adaptation to the Tropics". Arief played a comprehensive video analysis of the match between Krasnodar U-23 and Zenit, vividly illustrating the dynamic double pivot actions of Timur-Adi, showcasing how they successfully dismantled the opposition's defense through strategic high pressing. "In Russia, the slippiness of the snow considerably slows down the ball, allowing for high pressing strategies during the first 15 minutes of play. However, in Indonesia, where the scorching heat can quickly drain players' stamina, we must adapt by implementing a hybrid zonal strategy and increasing our focus on overloading the wings."
One of the coaches from Persebaya mustered up the courage to ask, "Sir, how do we effectively deal with Persib's aggressive physical playing style?"
Without missing a beat, Arief quickly drew a tactical formation on paper, illustrating the point. "By utilizing a false 9 who moves deeper into the field, we can pull opposing defenders out of their positions. Then, with a dribbling style reminiscent of Dika's, we can exploit any available space on the pitch. This methodology mirrors the approach we executed against CSKA, where we achieved a 3-1 victory."
On the practice field, the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm as participants eagerly divided into 50 groups to practice the pressing techniques that Arief had just taught. One enthusiastic coach from Bali United managed to simulate and score a mock goal during their training session, exclaiming, "This is incredible! It can genuinely be implemented on our field!"
Later in the afternoon, the session continued, focusing on the compelling theme "Snow Mental Resilience." During this segment, Arief shared a gripping narrative about his small team's remarkable comeback while at Nailsworth, highlighting the harsh realities of competing in the treacherous snow conditions prevalent in Russia. "European football organizations teach the concept of 'ice calm, fire attack' in preparation for set-piece situations, a philosophy that can greatly enhance our ability to perform under pressure."
As the event approached its closing, Minister Dito returned to the stage. "Arief, what message do you wish to impart to our national team?"
Responding with a measured yet confident tone, Arief declared, "The national team requires a hybrid approach, one that merges the physical strength learned in Russia with the creativity that is uniquely Indonesian. I stand ready to contribute whenever I am needed."
The echo of cheers resonated throughout the venue, creating an electrifying atmosphere as the event came to a close. That evening, during a lavish gala dinner held at Senayan, Erick Thohir, the esteemed Chairman of PSSI, invited Arief into a secluded private VIP room for an intimate conversation. "Arief, you are truly a hero for Indonesia. The rumors about Shin's possible retirement are indeed accurate. In light of this situation, I firmly believe that you are a strong contender for the position of head coach of the national team. What are your thoughts on this potential opportunity?"
Arief was caught off guard by the unexpected offer, feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension. "Mr. Erick, this is an immense honor for me. However, the contract for the senior RPL team is only just beginning, and my family is still situated in Russia…"
Erick interjected, "Could we explore a hybrid arrangement? Your performance at this clinic has been nothing short of exceptional, and I would urge you to consider this seriously. Our national team desperately needs your expertise as we set our sights on the 2030 World Cup qualifiers."
That evening, just as the stars began to twinkle in the Jakarta night sky, Natalia arrived and greeted her father with an exuberant hug. "An offer from the national team? That must be thrilling!"
Meanwhile, Sarah busily tended to her vlog, animatedly proclaiming, "If Arief becomes the national team coach, I have no doubt that Indonesia will experience a surge of new enthusiasm!"
Sari, observing the conversations unfold, softly yet meaningfully added, "A difficult decision, isn't it? Choosing between a stable career in Russia or answering the call of your homeland?"
As Arief gazed up at the endless expanse of stars dotting the Jakarta sky, a contemplative expression crossed his face. "I can't make that decision just yet. Pre-season training in Krasnodar kicks off next week. However, I know that the door to the national team will always remain wide open for me."
The story culminates with a text message from Erick to Arief: "There's an executive meeting at the PSSI tomorrow. Can you attend?"
Leaving everyone in suspense, the question looms: Will Arief accept the prestigious offer to become the national team coach, or will he choose to uphold commitments from his career in the RPL? What choice will he ultimately make in consideration of his family and future?
***
The second day of the highly anticipated coaching clinic, which took place at the renowned GBK Training Centre, proved to be even more thrilling and vibrant than the first day had been. Enthusiastically participating in the event, a staggering number of attendees reached a remarkable total of 1,200 people, who filled every available space on the main field and the upper stands. Among the crowd were notable Liga 1 coaches, alongside prominent figures in the coaching realm, such as the highly esteemed Bojan Hodak from Persib and the skilled Arthur Teixeira from Persebaya. Adding an air of prestige to the clinic were several legendary players of the Indonesian national team, including the iconic Bambang Pamungkas and the celebrated Ponaryo Astaman, who joined the gathering as distinguished special guests. Their wealth of experience and insight added an extra layer of richness and depth to the sessions, sparking engaging discussions and lively interactions throughout the day.
Additionally, the field was equipped with a state-of-the-art giant LED screen that broadcasted live highlights of the Krasnodar U-23 match, showcasing some unforgettable moments from the game, including Dika's impressive solo goal against Lokomotiv in a nail-biting final and Maxim's remarkable header executed amidst a breathtaking snowy backdrop. On a contrasting note, the hot and humid weather in Jakarta, which saw temperatures soaring to a sweltering 32°C, stood in stark contrast to the frigid conditions of minus 5°C that the attendees had experienced just a day earlier in Russia, underscoring the drastic environmental shift.
As the morning unfolded, Arief entered the stage clad in a special edition PSSI-Indo "Hybrid Hero" tracksuit, confidently gripping a wireless microphone in his hand. A wave of excitement swept through the crowd, resulting in resounding cheers of "Arief! Arief! Indo Pride Russia!" resonating throughout the venue. Notably, Minister Dito Ariotedjo occupied a front-row seat, while the influential Erick Thohir sat nearby, engaged in what seemed to be a private discussion with him.
With great respect and a palpable sense of enthusiasm, Arief addressed the enthusiastic audience, proclaiming a hearty good morning to all Indonesian coaches present. He set the tone for the second day by introducing the engaging topic of discussion: "Counter-Attack Mastery – From Snow to Rice Fields." He elaborated on the challenges of counter-attacking in Russia, emphasizing the necessity for acute vision that extended up to 50 metres in order to navigate the slippery snow. Contrasting this, he highlighted the unique difficulties faced in Indonesia, where the intense heat could lead to a decline in stamina. He proposed tactical adaptations that included utilizing a double pivot and employing an overload strategy on the wings to maintain effectiveness in both conditions. Once he pressed the remote to begin the presentation, a video showcasing the thrilling match between Krasnodar and CSKA played on the screen, revealing how Adi-Timur executed a crucial interception. The crowd witnessed Dika deftly weave past three defenders before scoring a pivotal goal, leading to a triumphant 3-1 victory for his team.
Following this, the legendary Bambang Pamungkas took to the stage to engage Arief in a thought-provoking dialogue. He reminisced about his time with the national team and candidly pointed out the challenges they faced in implementing counter strategies due to physical limitations of the players back then. He probed further, asking Arief about the innovative hybrid approach he was proposing.
In response, Arief eagerly illustrated the tactical strategies in real-time on the stage, blending the physical attributes of Indonesian players with the robust strength admired in Russian footballers. He highlighted athletes like Adi, who played the role of a box-to-box player equipped with sharp perceptive skills, while Timur was complemented for his abilities in tactical tackles, boasting an impressive success rate of up to 85%. Arief emphasized that utilizing the False 9 trap would enable Luka to drop back, thereby drawing in opposing defenders and generating significant space for the wingers to exploit. Consequently, he encouraged all participants to practice this invigorating tactic right away.
The training session on the pitch morphed into a high-energy spectacle, emanating a sense of chaotic excitement as the vast group of 1,200 coaches was divided into 100 smaller teams. Balls soared through the air, interspersed with the animated shouts and instructions from coaches across the field. The enthusiasm of the Persib coach became evident as he let out an exhilarating exclamation, "This is incredible! It feels almost like our thrilling match against PSM, infused with a turbo style!" In a similar vein, Ponaryo Astaman, who showcased his prowess by scoring a volley goal during the demonstration session, remarked appreciatively: "Mr. Arief, this approach could indeed spark a revolution in Liga 1!"
As the afternoon approached, the session transitioned seamlessly into the theme of "Tropical Russian Set-Piece." Arief proceeded to demonstrate Sergei's expertly executed curving free kick against Zenit, explaining the critical importance of inswinging the kick into the defender's blind-side zone. He made a pertinent observation about the unpredictable winds in Indonesia, urging a focus on short corner overloads for adaptability. One of the coaches from Bali United raised a pertinent question regarding defensive strategies against wall jumps when playing against Persija. Arief addressed this concern thoughtfully, sharing that he relied on a zonal hybrid approach: adviser Giorgi would be responsible for marking the jumper, while Reza would oversee clearing any second balls.
During the significantly important VIP lunch break at Senayan, a relaxed atmosphere prevailed. Erick Thohir took the initiative to invite Arief to a round-table gathering alongside Minister Dito, Bambang, and various PSSI executives. The diverse and mouthwatering array of dishes, including delectable seafood fried rice and enticing taichan satay, helped to ease any tensions while fostering a warm sense of camaraderie among the group.
Erick seized the opportunity to express his admiration, saying, "Mr. Arief, the clinic you have orchestrated is nothing short of a phenomenal success. The national media has aptly captured the essence of your impact with the headline 'Arief Rahman: The Bridge Between Europe and Indonesia.' Furthermore, with Shin Tae-yong's contract set to conclude in December, PSSI has reached a consensus on your overwhelming potential as the foremost candidate to assume the role of head coach for the national team. We are thrilled to present an attractive budget of up to €1 million annually, along with performance-based bonuses and complete autonomy regarding your coaching staff decisions. What are your thoughts?"
Taking a moment to reflect, Arief inhaled deeply and directed his gaze toward the Minister, "Mr. Erick, Minister, I deeply appreciate this proposition. It is an extraordinary honor for me. From a young age, it has been my dream to lead the national team into the 2030 World Cup, and this opportunity feels like a stepping stone towards that vision. However, I must also mention that my current contract with Krasnodar commences in July, where I'm slated to work as Karpin's assistant, and additionally, my family has established a solid foundation in Russia."
Minister Dito met Arief's concerns with understanding and proposed a forward-thinking hybrid solution. He suggested that Arief could take on a part-time role as the head coach of the national team while maintaining his responsibilities in Russia throughout the season. The successful naturalization of Dika and Reza stood as a testament to Arief's positive influence and contributions, emphasizing the pressing need for his expertise in Indonesia at this very moment, rather than in some distant future.
Bambang, always a supporter of innovation, chimed in: "I wholeheartedly back this approach. With the hybrid strategy you advocate, there exists a genuine possibility for us to reclaim a position in the top three spots in Southeast Asia." Ponaryo also added a cautionary note, stating, "However, the public pressure could be intense. The media will not turn a blind eye if we face any defeats."
In a reaffirming response, Arief expressed his readiness to embrace the impending pressure while also emphasizing the importance of discussing this pivotal opportunity with his family first. "Can I provide you with an answer by next week?" he inquired.
Erick, extending his hand in a gesture of agreement, replied: "Absolutely. Tomorrow, we will conclude on the third day of the clinic, and we will officially announce the candidate if you choose to accept."
In an unexpected moment of joy, Natalia approached Arief backstage at noon, enveloping him in a warm embrace, her voice filled with excitement, "Seriously, you've been offered an official role with the national team? That's absolutely phenomenal! Liam mentioned just a little earlier, 'Dad is going to be the captain of Indonesia!'"
Meanwhile, Sarah intensified the buzz on her live Instagram feed, boasting an impressive audience of 300,000 viewers as she posed the question: "Arief coaching the national team? Vote yes or no! Let's see how Russia stacks up against Indonesia in the polls!"
Sari, maintaining a calm demeanor amidst the chaos, made a thoughtful comment regarding the situation, "Mas, I can sense that your heart truly lies in Jakarta, but Russia is presenting a stable salary of €400k along with the allure of a penthouse."
As the third day unfolded, the event reached its pinnacle with the theme "Full Match Simulation Hybrid," a theatrical large-scale demonstration. Arief skillfully divided the Liga 1 All-Star team to pit against the U-23 national team, employing a well-structured 4-2-3-1 formation that mirrored Krasnodar's tactical strategy. The excitement was palpable as the kick-off approached, and within just five minutes, Liga 1 managed to score a thrilling goal, a testament to Arief's high pressing approach. As the 20th minute came, the national team showcased their resilience, crafting an impeccable counterattack led by Dika's thrilling solo effort, leveling the score amidst cheers from an electric crowd of 5,000 spectators that filled the GBK venue.
As the first half approached its climax, a free kick executed according to Arief's pre-planned routine—featuring a short corner overload—culminated in a volley goal by Bambang, which surged the national team ahead with a score of 2-1! However, as the second half progressed, a shift in tactics ensued, and despite their high pressing strategy, the national team found themselves fatigued. Liga 1 made a formidable comeback, ultimately bringing the score to a nail-biting 3-2. The match concluded with a hard-fought draw of 3-3.
In the closing ceremony, Minister Dito stepped up to the podium, exclaiming with pride: "Arief Rahman has indubitably revolutionized the paradigm of football in our nation! PSSI is thrilled to announce that Arief is now the leading candidate for the head coach position of the Indonesian national team!"
Cheers and exuberance erupted throughout the stadium, igniting a wave of enthusiasm among the masses. The media swiftly picked up the compelling story, framing it as "Arief vs Shin: A New Era for the National Team!"
On a night filled with celebratory events at GBK, Erick organized a private meeting to discuss crucial details: "Shall we finalize the Letter of Intent tonight? The Russian pre-season will carry on while the national team will be gearing up for selections in August."
Seizing a precious moment, Arief connected with his family via video call. Natalia expressed her concern, "Think things over carefully. Indonesia is calling out, but Russia has become home for us."
With contemplative intent, Arief responded: "I will provide you with a definitive answer tomorrow. Nevertheless, I feel a stronger inclination towards Indonesia."
Gradually, amidst a backdrop of a red and white flag gracefully waving at GBK that evening, Arief reflected deeply: "The two flags seem to be pulling me in divergent directions. The question lingers—where shall I lead us to a championship victory?"
As anticipation filled the air, everyone was left wondering: Will Arief choose to accept the role of head coach for the national team? What challenges lie ahead in navigating potential conflicts within Karpin's team? What decision will his family arrive at? As the narrative unfolds, the RPL derby in Russia remains a steadfast wait for his attention, entrapping him at the heart of two worlds.
***
The closing night of the coaching clinic held at the iconic Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (GBK) reached an astonishing and unforgettable peak of euphoria that will forever be etched in the memories of all who were present. The vibrant atmosphere enveloping the stadium was nothing short of extraordinary, with an array of dazzling spotlights illuminating the giant stage, creating a spectacular visual attraction that captivated and enthralled every one of the thousands of attendees. A crowd of approximately 5,000 spectators, comprised of dedicated coaches, fervent supporters of the national team, and the extended family of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), filled the air with loud and enthusiastic cheers and chants. As the national anthem "Indonesia Raya" resonated powerfully throughout every corner of the stadium, it added an emotional layer of excitement and pride to the event on that warm night. On the large, high-definition LED screen, breathtaking highlights from the three days of clinic activities were replayed for the audience's enjoyment, showcasing treasured moments from coach Arief's intensive pressing training against Persebaya to the thrilling 3-3 All-Star match simulation. Additionally, an equally fascinating interview with Minister Dito unfolded on screen, wherein he passionately stated, "Arief is the Future of the National Team," reinforcing the collective hope and aspirations of those gathered. Despite the night air temperature in Jakarta soaring to a steamy 28°C, an oppressive heat that could easily dampen spirits, the enthusiasm of the audience remained unwavering, echoing the fervor of the exhilarating atmosphere that one might associate with an electrifying AFF Cup final.
Arief, undeniably the star of the evening, found himself standing behind the VIP stage, clad in his sports attire, which was drenched in sweat from the relentless demands of his hard work and dedication. Surrounding him were the supportive figures of his beloved family, who were there to share in this momentous occasion with warmth and affection: Natalia, his devoted wife, held tightly onto their children, Liam and Sofia, providing them with reassurance that their father's achievements were remarkable. Meanwhile, Sarah, his third wife who is well-known for her vibrant presence on social media, busily captured the event live on Instagram, with an impressive audience of up to 500,000 viewers tuning in to share in the historic moment titled "Timnas Decision Night!" In a moment of tender camaraderie, Sari, his second wife, who unwaveringly stood by Arief's side through thick and thin, gently leaned in to whisper to him, "Mas, Mr. Erick is waiting for your answer." Amidst this atmosphere teeming with high hopes and aspirations, Erick Thohir and Minister Dito made their grand entrance onto the stage, microphones in hand, ready to deliver the highly anticipated announcement that the nation had eagerly been waiting for.
Erick's voice resonated powerfully and confidently throughout the country via RCTI's broadcast, proclaiming, "Arief Rahman is part of us, not just a guest—he is a son of the nation that we should be proud of! From a tenacious defender who valiantly saved Nailsworth from relegation and made history by leading Krasnodar U-23 to win the RPL, to achieving UEFA A certification, we, PSSI, are honored to offer the prestigious position of Head Coach of the Indonesian National Team to Arief, who will embark on this commendable journey starting in August 2026. With an annual budget of €1.5 million, along with potential bonuses for successful qualification to the World Cup, full autonomy over the coaching staff, and committed support for the naturalization of talented players from Asia and Europe, Mr. Arief, what is your response to this honorable offer?"
In response to this monumental moment, the crowd erupted into a thunderous wave of cheers, passionately chanting, "Arief as national team coach! Arief, coach of the national team!" Overflowing with a blend of nervousness and joy, Arief stepped forward onto the stage, embracing Erick and Minister Dito with deep emotion, while the microphone in his hand trembled with the weight of gratitude and excitement. "Mr. Erick, Mr. Minister, and all my fellow coaches in Indonesia! Becoming a national team coach is a lifelong dream I have harbored since I was a child, watching the national team's struggles unfold right here at the GBK. I eagerly accept this offer with a profound sense of responsibility! However, I request a hybrid solution: to complete the pre-season in Krasnodar until July, after which I will shift my focus entirely onto the national team. Indonesia is calling—and I am ready to answer!"
As the stadium shook with the exhilaration of the exuberant crowd, vibrant red-and-white confetti filled the air, transforming the moment into a grand celebration. News of this historic announcement spread like wildfire, soon becoming the headlines gracing media outlets everywhere: "Arief Rahman Officially Becomes National Team Head Coach! The Hybrid Era Begins!" Sarah, who steadfastly continued to document this monumental occasion live, witnessed her vlog explode in popularity, garnering an impressive one million views titled: "Indonesia's Pride in Russia Becomes the Boss of Garuda!"
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere buzzed with extraordinary excitement and energy. Natalia, her face glowing with happiness, embraced Arief tightly and exclaimed, "Honey! Are you really the national team coach now? Liam told me, 'Daddy is now Indonesia's superhero!'" Overwhelmed with joy, Liam jumped exuberantly, shouting with glee, "Goal for the World Cup!" Yet, amid the celebrations, Sari gently reminded Arief, "That's wonderful! But what about Krasnodar? Karpin might not be very pleased."
Meanwhile, in a lavish air-conditioned private room, Erick invited Arief for a serious and detailed conversation, saying, "The specifics of this contract outline a base salary of €1.5 million, along with a bonus of €500,000 if you are able to secure a placement in the top four of Southeast Asia or successfully qualify for the World Cup. We plan to conduct training camps in Jakarta as well as Europe. As for your coaching staff, you have the freedom to choose five individuals—Dmitri from Russia is an acceptable option. Moreover, the naturalisation of Dika and Reza is our priority for the upcoming season."
With unwavering conviction, Arief responded, "Deal. However, there is one critical point to address: my family maintains strong ties to Russia, necessitating a division of our time. The national team's base will predominantly be in Jakarta, while in the winter months, we will need to reside in Krasnodar. The Unity Academy in Russia must also continue to operate concurrently."
Minister Dito nodded in satisfaction, "Excellent. We will organize a press conference at Senayan tomorrow. Shin Tae-yong has graciously agreed to support your transition—he will act as your advisor during this time."
As excitement lingered in the air, Bambang Pamungkas extended his hand to shake Arief's, saying, "Congratulations, my friend! I sincerely hope you can guide our national team toward glory and lead us to the 2030 World Cup!" Yet, Ponaryo, looking keenly aware of the challenges ahead, warned him, "The scrutiny from the media will be immense—should we falter against Vietnam, there will undoubtedly be headlines declaring 'Arief Fails.' Are you prepared to confront that?"
With resolute determination, Arief replied confidently, "I am absolutely ready. Back at Nailsworth, I faced immense pressure to achieve promotion and dealt with the harsh realities of a brutal winter in Russia—the national team presents the next challenge that I must rise to conquer."
The enchanting evening continued with a lively gala party held at Senayan, featuring sumptuous delights such as a hundred skewers of savory satay, mouth-watering goat fried rice, and a band performing the beloved anthem "Garuda di Dadaku" live on stage. Arief raised his glass in front of an audience of 200 VIP guests at the luxurious event and proclaimed enthusiastically, "The national team isn't about just me—we are all the essence of what makes it great! With a synergistic approach incorporating both Russia and Indonesia: extraordinary physical endurance combined with the magical dribbling skills we possess. The call of the World Cup is already resonating in the air!"
Yet, despite the revelry, Natalia gently spoke to Arief, requesting, "Have you heard any updates from Krasnodar? Does Karpin know yet?" Arief quickly glanced at his phone to see that he had missed five calls from Sergey Galitsky Jr. and Karpin. Listening to Karpin's voicemail, he heard, "Arief, I've been made aware of the Indonesian national team offer. Congratulations! But what about our RPL contract? We need to meet urgently in Moscow tomorrow. Please don't let me down."
A look of concern washed over Sarah as she exclaimed, "Oh no, not another conflict! Russia versus Indonesia, round two!" Sari, with a hint of concern in her voice, added, "The children have become comfortable living in Jakarta. But have we considered what will happen to our penthouse back in Krasnodar?"
An extensive family discussion unfolded within their lavish hotel suite, with Natalia weighing in thoughtfully, "For the national team, our hearts are firmly rooted in Indonesia, where our family resides in Jakarta, not to mention that pursuing Arief's dream of the World Cup is paramount. However, leaving the RPL, which affords an income of €400,000, coupled with the investments in the Unity Academy totaling around €5 million, which symbolize our family's foundation in Russia, brings some hesitation given the security it provides."
Sarah chimed in, "This whole saga has gone viral! Arief is now officially the National Team Coach and is trended number one on Twitter Indonesia; it's an incredible phenomenon!"
With a calm demeanor, Arief finally asserted, "Tomorrow, I shall reach out to Karpin. This hybrid solution is feasible: during the off-season, I can dedicate myself comprehensively to the national team, while during the RPL season, I shall step back from national duties. Additionally, the PSSI will graciously sponsor our efforts to obtain the UEFA Pro licence required to fulfil my ambitions."
Liam, his enthusiasm infectious, declared, "Dad is managing two teams? That's super cool!"
The following morning, an influential press conference was held at Senayan, attended by a throng of 200 eager journalists. Arief took his place at the podium with the confidence of a leader and declared resolutely, "Leading the national team is a calling of the heart and soul. Krasnodar is my second family—this hybrid model represents the best solution going forward. My foremost target: to not only capture victory at the upcoming 2026 AFF Championship but also to achieve a top-eight position in the Asian qualifiers!"
A flood of questions erupted from the audience: "What was Valery Karpin's response?" Arief replied with calm assurance, "I haven't had a chance to speak to him yet, but I maintain a strong and positive professional relationship with him. Big clubs invariably support the national team coach, given the mutual goals we share."
Later that same afternoon, a video call initiated from Karpin and Sergey emerged from Krasnodar. Karpin's tone was firm as he stated, "Arief, are you genuinely serious about taking on the national team role? Your existing contract as senior assistant coach of the RPL still has two years left! The Unity Academy in Russia has evolved into a nationally recognized program. You need to return promptly and clarify this situation!"
Responding perceptively, Arief expressed immense gratitude and respect, "Coach, I appreciate everything you have done for me. The national team represents a lifelong dream for both me and Indonesia. I am proposing a hybrid approach: the RPL will operate from July to May, allowing me to prioritize the national team in June and during the qualifiers. You will remain in your position as head coach, and I will support you in your endeavors as an assistant."
Sergey pressed for further clarification, questioning, "Has PSSI agreed to this arrangement? What about your family's situation?"
Arief delineated clearly, "Everything has been amicably discussed and agreed upon. My family plans to reside primarily in Jakarta throughout the national team's run, returning to Krasnodar when the RPL season is underway."
Karpin paused for a moment, contemplating the complexities before finally stating, "This is an enormous decision. However, given your stellar performance with the U-23 squad, I will permit you one season to experiment with this hybrid model. If you do not attain a top-6 position in the RPL, we will proceed to terminate our agreement. Your first test will come during the derby against Zenit."
Delighted by the opportunity, Arief accepted without hesitation, "Deal! Thank you, Coach."
Once the call concluded, Arief turned towards his family, his face aglow with excitement as he announced, "The hybrid system has officially been approved! We can now seamlessly blend my work with the RPL alongside my responsibilities with the national team!"
His entire family erupted into cheers of satisfaction and pride. However, just as the excitement was peaking, a WhatsApp message arrived from Mr. Erick that read: "Tonight, a PSSI executive meeting will take place. We will be holding the final vote on the hybrid solution—some factions are demanding a full commitment to the national team. We must be present at Senayan by 8 pm."
Concern flickered in Natalia's eyes as she inquired, "Are there internal issues brewing at PSSI?"
Arief cooled her worries with a measured response, "It's possible that a few local coaches might be feeling discontented with the growing presence of foreign staff. We must be prepared to make a final decision tomorrow."
As the evening darkened, the neon lights of Jakarta illuminated the sky, casting a soft glow as Arief walked alone along the majestic confines of GBK, the national flag proudly waving overhead. "Two teams, two nations, yet one heart united in a common goal. But will there be resistance from within PSSI that poses an obstacle? Meanwhile, Karpin's daunting derby test nears on the horizon. The next chapter promises to be an exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping climax, revealing the intricacies and challenges that lie ahead..."