Justin Hubner And Ivar Jenner Can't Defend The Indonesian National Team In The 2024 AFF Cup, PSSI Chairman Relaxes

JAKARTA - PSSI General Chairperson (Ketum), Erick Thohir, admitted that he had no problem with the situation regarding Justin Hubner and Ivar Jenner who could not defend the Indonesian national team in the 2024 AFF Cup.

He chose a relaxed attitude because he realized that PSSI could not force the club to release its players.

Previously, it was known that the 2024 AFF Cup was not included in the FIFA agenda. Therefore, every club has the right not to release players.

Justin Hubner is currently a Wolverhampton Wanderers U-21 player, while Ivar Jenner plays for Jong Utrecht.

With the club's decision not to release a number of players to the AFF Cup, this is a challenge for the Indonesian national team coach, Shin Tae-yong, to play a strategy.

Regarding this matter, Erick Thohir also appreciated the coach who chose to empower young players in the squad.

"I didn't force all the players to join from the start. In fact, this is our priority to increase the players in the Indonesian league."

"However, those from outside can, such as Rafael Struick, Marselino, yes, very welcome," said Erick Thohir in Jakarta, Monday, December 16, 2024.

Furthermore, Erick Thohir said that at this time it is better to provide support to players who are absent from the national team to develop with their clubs.

Moreover, he also considered that the club would have a big impact on the players.

"I remind you, players also have fatigue, there are injuries. Players who have careers in big clubs if they are focused, we must also respect them. It is impossible for us to force them," said Erick Thohir.

"They don't have a salary from us, something that we have to respect, that we also have to take care of their careers," he said again.