Abdulmanan Ready to Compete for Starting Spot at Persija Without U23 Regulation

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Persija Jakarta youngster, Arlyansyah Abdulmanan, has stated he is ready to compete for a place in the starting XI, even though the upcoming Super League season will no longer implement the U23 player regulation.

“I am still confident that I can compete with the other Persija players,” Arlyansyah told the media in Jakarta on Monday.

He was responding to the new policy from the I.League competition operator, which has abolished the U23 player regulation for the next season.

Previously, the regulation required every club to register at least five U23 players. In every match, clubs were also required to field at least one U23 player as a starter, who had to play for a minimum of 45 minutes.

Despite the removal of this rule, Abdulmanan is undeterred by the competition and does not wish to rely on regulations to secure playing opportunities.

The 20-year-old midfielder is enthusiastic about the upcoming season under new coach Shin Tae-yong.

The South Korean coach, who previously managed the Indonesian National Team, is known for his preference for giving young players opportunities to develop. Abdulmanan views this as a positive factor for his career.

“So, I will train even harder to ensure I can make the starting lineup in the team coached by him (Shin Tae-yong),” he said.