KBRN, Jakarta: Shin Tae-yong (STY) has concluded his term as head coach of the Indonesian national soccer team, following the Indonesian Football Association's (PSSI) decision to terminate his contract on Monday (Jan 6). The association, however, has yet to officially announce the new coach to replace STY.

During his tenure, Shin Tae-yong has significantly influenced the Indonesian national team's playing style, introducing modern football tactics, and emphasizing a "build-up" style of play.

"Modern football possesses certain key characteristics. We strive to emulate these characteristics by emphasizing not only defensive strategies but also focusing on attacking build-up and other key aspects of modern football," said Shin Tae-yong, while managing the Indonesian national team at the 2023 Asian Cup in Qatar in January 2024, as reported by rri.co.id.

“If we only play at the back and focus on defense, I think Indonesian football will not develop. Our tactics are focused on developing Indonesian football, not solely on results,” he added.

During his coaching, Shin Tae-yong frequently employed a three-center-back system, primarily utilizing 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formations. This flexible system allows for seamless transitions into a more defensive 5-4-1 or 5-3-2 shape when required.

A key characteristic of Shin Tae-yong's tactical approach is the emphasis on an "open" style of play. Players are encouraged to interchange positions fluidly, creating dynamic movement and unpredictable passing options.

This fluidity benefits both defensive and offensive strategies. Defensively, it minimizes space and allows for rapid shifts to cover potential threats. Offensively, it creates more opportunities for players to find advantageous positions and contribute to attacking moves.

The STY scheme emphasizes efficient goal-scoring by maximizing the conversion rate of scoring opportunities. This approach recognizes that goal-scoring responsibilities are not solely confined to the attacking line. The STY scheme encourages all players, including those in midfield and defense, to contribute to the team's offensive output.

STY has significantly altered the playing style of the Indonesian national team. Previously reliant on speed and long passes, the team is now emphasizing a "build-up" style of play under the guidance of the South Korean coach.

Quoting from Total Football page, this build-up strategy involves intricate passing combinations to control the ball and maintain possession. While emphasizing short-pass combinations, this style of play also incorporates direct forward passes and long balls to create attacking opportunities.

This modern style of soccer is now embraced by many of Europe's top clubs and national teams. Pep Guardiola, renowned for his success with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, is widely recognized as a leading proponent of this playing style.

It will be fascinating to observe the future trajectory of the Indonesian national team following the departure of Coach Shin Tae-yong. The successor will need to possess the skills and vision to guide the Garuda Squad to even greater heights. ***