At a press conference in Jakarta, Monday (Jan 6), Thohir denied all claims that he faced pressure from various parties, including the football mafia and PSSI Exco, regarding the dismissal of the Korean coach.
"I think all of that is not true because you know I am a leader who cannot be pressured," Thohir stated.
He explained that the decision to part ways with STY was considered the best in light of Indonesia’s goal to compete effectively in the 2026 World Cup.
The upcoming four matches in the third qualifying round will be crucial for Indonesia's World Cup ambitions, as the country currently sits third in Group C with six points from six matches.
The teams that finish first and second will secure spots in the World Cup, which will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Related news: Shin Tae-yong dismissed as Indonesian football team coach
Meanwhile, the third and fourth places will advance to a fourth qualifying round to win the remaining tickets.
"I believe that what we are doing is all for the good. The point is we have to work hard. We cannot just accept the situation and hope for good results," Thohir remarked.
During the conference, he revealed that Indonesia's new coach is from the Netherlands, with an official introduction to the public scheduled at a press conference on January 12.
Despite being only officially announced this weekend, Patrick Kluivert is rumored to be a potential successor to STY.
Related news: Key milestones of Indonesia's football team under Shin Tae-yong
Translator: Zaro Ezza Syachniar, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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