Persija Officially Brings Pratama Arhan to the 2026/2027 Super League, Reunion with Shin Tae-yong

JAKARTA - Persija Jakarta is ready to sail the 2026/2027 Super League with a new spirit, through the decision to recruit Pratama Arhan.

The 24-year-old player was recruited with an impressive background through a number of records in the Indonesian National Team and had defended several foreign clubs.

Arhan was officially introduced as a new Persija player on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. In the contract agreement, Arhan will be part of the Macan Kemayoran for the next three seasons and will reunite with his coach at the Indonesian National Team, Shin Tae-yong.

Persija Jakarta President, Mohamad Prapanca, said the recruitment of Pratama Arhan was carried out because of the quality, experience, and mentality of the player.

Arhan's presence is expected to strengthen the left sector of the Macan Kemayoran squad and his experience in the international arena can help the team pass through a busy competition schedule throughout the season.

"Pratama Arhan is a player who has the quality, experience, and mentality we need to strengthen the squad this season."

"His presence will add depth to the team, especially on the left side, while creating healthy competition within the squad."

"It is very important that every player continues to develop and the team has many options in the face of the crowded competition," said Prapanca as quoted from the club's official website, Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

Pratama Arhan's experience of having played for Japanese, South Korean, and Thai clubs is considered competitive enough to support Persija.

Arhan first started his professional football career with PSIS Semarang in 2020. He then spread his wings in the international arena by joining Tokyo Verdy which is a Japanese club in 2022.

Even though he only recorded two appearances in the J2 League until 2024, this experience became the initial door for Arhan to feel the atmosphere of professional football outside Indonesia.

His journey then continued at Suwon FC, South Korea, before joining Bangkok United in Thailand. With Bangkok United, Arhan got more playing time by recording 20 appearances in the Thai League as well as appearing in the ASEAN Club Championship, AFC Champions League Two, Thailand FA Cup, and Thai League Cup.

The experience of playing in three foreign competitions is expected to be an important capital for Arhan when strengthening Persija in the new season.

Arhan admitted that he was enthusiastic to play again in the Indonesian competition with Persija after several seasons of career abroad.

He also welcomed the opportunity to work with Shin Tae-yong again, the coach who had guided him in the Indonesian National Team and now also manages Persija.

"This is a very special opportunity for me to join Persija. Returning to my homeland, meeting old friends again, and working again with a coach I've known is certainly something that means a lot to me."

"I am ready to work hard, follow all the coach's instructions, and give my best in every game," said Arhan.