PSSI's Relationship With The Japanese Federation Kian 'Mesra' Thanks To Pratama Arhan

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir when he was a witness to Pratama Arhan's marriage at the Indonesia Mosque in Tokyo, Japan, Sunday (20/8/2023). (Photo via ANTARA/HO-PSSI)

JAKARTA - The figure of Pratama Arhan makes the relationship between the Indonesian Football Federation (PSSI) and the Japanese Football Federation (JFA) more intimate. PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir, Arhan's presence in Japan, made it easier for PSSI to ask JFA to help improve national football.

He did not deny that Arhan, who is now defending Tokyo Verdy, has brought blessings to Indonesian football.

This was conveyed by Erick when delivering his remarks at Arhan's wedding reception with the celebgram Nurul Azizah Rosiade at the Indonesia Mosque in Tokyo, Japan, Sunday, August 20.

"Indeed, state diplomacy continues to be carried out with the state, or business with business. However, there is something even stronger, namely people to people diplomacy, where sports diplomacy is one of the most powerful," said Erick, as quoted by Antara.

"This is a symbol that the relationship between Indonesia and Japan is not only in the economic field, but also in the field of sports. Because Arhan, I am trying to collaborate with PSSI Japan (JFA). Thank God it was signed yesterday," he continued.

According to him, in the near future, JFA will send representatives of its referees to Indonesia.

"So we are working together. And we are also waiting for a collaboration with JFA, and they will help us specifically send coaches to the women's soccer team," said Erick.

Arhan has officially become a Tokyo Verdy player, a Japanese club competing at the second level of the J2 League, since February 2022. Unfortunately, Arhan rarely gets the opportunity to appear, especially as a starter.