Imran Nahumarury vows to stay with Semen Padang

Imran Nahumarury, the coach of Semen Padang, says he will remain with the team even after they were relegated to the Liga Championship. ‘Whatever the condition, even if relegated, I have never left this team,’ Imran told a press conference ahead of the match against Persija in Jakarta on Friday. Semen Padang will travel to Jakarta on Saturday (23 June) to play their final match in the Super League, marking the end of Kabau Sirah’s campaign in the Indonesian top flight this season. The match has no bearing on the team’s fate since they have already been relegated from the Super League, so it will simply be an opportunity to finish the season on a high note. Semen Padang sit 17th with 20 points. Regardless of the result against Persija—win, draw or defeat—it will not change their position. Semen Padang are also facing financial issues after players have not yet received salaries from management. Off-field problems such as financial issues affect the team’s atmosphere, particularly players’ motivation and mental state. Nevertheless, the squad is trying to stay focused to finish the season well. For him, the players’ willingness to play in the final match against Persija is already a reassuring sign. He believes the spirit and commitment of the players to show up and carry out their duties deserve praise in difficult circumstances. ‘Given the current condition, the players’ willingness to play is, I think, already extraordinary,’ he said. Imran acknowledged that the situation he faces is not easy. As a coach, he faces a major challenge in keeping the team solid amid various problems. He says anyone in the same position would likely experience similar difficulties. ‘From the start I said I would continue with this team,’ he said.