President of Indonesian Football Federation suggests foreign players leave "the archipelago"

(NLDO) - PSSI President Erick Thohir spoke out after the controversial statement of foreign player Yuran Fernandes (PSM Makassar), even suggesting to leave Indonesia.

After losing 1-3 to PSS Sleman in round 31 of BRI Liga 1 on May 3, PSM Makassar foreign player Yuran Fernandes angrily posted a story on Instagram, criticizing Indonesian football as "a joke" and saying that the "class and corruption" of the country's football will never change.

"Football in Indonesia is just a joke, so the class and corruption here will never change. If you want to make money, you can come to Indonesia. But if you want to play football seriously, stay away from this place" - Yuran expressed on Instagram.

In response to the above message, Mr. Thohir recently stated that if Yuran regrets playing football in Indonesia, he should leave.

President Thohir asked Yuran to leave Indonesia if he felt he was not suitable for the country's football.

"He has apologized. But if he feels remorse, then don't play football in Indonesia anymore. Go play abroad, don't stay here. Play somewhere else. Don't make a living and develop your career here," Mr. Erick Thohir emphasized.

Mr. Thohir also requested PT Liga Indonesia Baru (LIB) - the organizer of BRI Liga, to take action even though the player apologized and made a correction.

"He is defaming our tournament. Unless he has evidence. If he has evidence, for example saying 'this referee was bribed, that player was bribed', we will arrest him" - Mr. Erick Thohir further explained.

Foreign player Yuran Fernandes (PSM Makassar) was asked to play in another country.

In a post of correction and apology, Yuran said his statement was personal, stemming from frustration during the match, especially when his goal in the match was disallowed.

He affirmed that he did not intend to insult Indonesia, and expressed his hope that the country's football would improve and develop further. Although Yuran has spoken out to clarify, the incident still caused much controversy.

Many experts even asked PSSI to take tough action against the uncontrolled statements of foreign players.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/chu-tich-ldbd-indonesia-de-nghi-ngoai-binh-roi-xu-van-dao-196250507195527513.htm