Witan Sulaeman, a well-known name in Indonesian football circles, finds himself facing a bitter reality. Not only struggling to secure a spot in Persija Jakarta’s starting lineup, but also being sidelined by Patrick Kluivert in the Indonesian national team.
The absence of Witan Sulaeman from the roster for the March 2025 period of Round 3 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers has left many fans puzzled. This Palu, Central Sulawesi, native has been a regular fixture in the Indonesian national team from youth groups to the senior level. With 121 appearances under his belt across various age groups, including U19 and senior levels, Witan Sulaeman has made a significant impact on Indonesian football.
In his time with the national team, Sulaeman has played a total of 46 matches, scoring 9 goals for the senior Garuda squad. This achievement is remarkable for a player who only made his debut in 2021. His consistent presence in the team can be attributed to the frequent calls he received from former national team coach Shin Tae-yong (STY), especially during the Asia zone World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
Despite his dedication to the team, Witan Sulaeman found himself left out of the squad only twice during the World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, with one instance coinciding with his pilgrimage to Mecca. However, he has always been a reliable option for the team, making appearances in almost every match. While he may not always start or play the full 90 minutes, he has only found himself on the bench once, during the last match against Saudi Arabia in November 2024.
Now, as the team transitions under the leadership of Patrick Kluivert for the March 2025 period, Witan’s absence from the squad marks a significant change in his national team journey. Despite his past contributions and consistent presence in the team, the winger will not be adding to his caps for the Indonesian national team in this new phase.
Expert Insights: The Impact of Coaching Changes on Player Selection
Expert football analyst, Maria Sanchez, weighs in on the situation, highlighting the common challenges players face when transitioning between coaches. “When a new coach takes over a national team, they often bring a fresh perspective and different preferences in terms of player selection. This can result in established players finding themselves on the outskirts of the squad,” says Sanchez. “It’s a tough reality for players like Witan Sulaeman, who have been integral to the team under previous coaching regimes.”
As Witan Sulaeman navigates this unexpected turn in his national team career, fans and football enthusiasts alike are left wondering about the future of Indonesian football and the intricate dynamics that shape player selections at the highest levels.
