Regarding The Toulon Tournament, PSSI Is Still Looking For An Empty Schedule In The Midst Of Shin Tae-yong's Busy Agenda

PSSI Technical Director, Indra Sjafri (Right) and PSSI General Chair (Photo: PSSI)

JAKARTA - Not long ago, PSSI reportedly did not respond to an invitation to participate in the 2022 Toulon Tournament which will be held in France. Related to this, PSSI's Technical Director, Indra Sjafri opened his voice.

According to Indra Sjafri, PSSI has not yet provided a final response because it is still considering the available schedule. Because, throughout this year coach Shin Tae-yong's agenda with the Indonesian national team has been quite solid.

"Yes, they (tournament organizers) are just looking for and asking for participation. Again, we are matching it with other national teams' schedules," said Indra Sjafri in a written statement received by VOI on Wednesday, January 26.

"This year Coach STY has a very solid agenda. From seniors, AFF U-23, AFF U-19, SEA Games, Asian Games, and AFF Senior again. We will discuss further later," he explained.

The Toulon tournament, which is now known as Tournoi Maurice Revello, is scheduled to start in mid-2022. The tournament, which is devoted to young players, is regularly held every year.

However, in the previous two editions the tournament was not held due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indonesian national team participated in the 2017 edition, at which time players such as Egy Maulana Vikri and Witan Sulaeman competed.

Despite failing to contribute achievements, the appearance of the U-19 Indonesian national team, which was held by Indra Sjafri at that time, was successful in getting the spotlight. Because at that time the Garuda Muda squad was able to trouble Brazil, the Czech Republic, and Scotland.

In fact, Egy Maulana Vikri won the prestigious individual award Jouer Revelation (Breakthrough Player) in the championship.

The Toulon Tournament itself is one of the prestigious age group championships. From the tournament many names of great footballers were born, one of which was Cristiano Ronaldo who defended the Portugal national team in 2003.