Arema FC Secures Seven Local Players for 2026/2027 Season

Arema FC management has officially extended contracts with seven domestic players ahead of the 2026/2027 Super League season, according to an announcement confirmed by General Manager Yusrinal Fitriandi on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The retained players include three veteran legends—Alfarizi, Dendi Santoso, and Jayus Hariono—along with younger prospects Bayu Setiawan, Dwiki Mardiyanto, Dimas Aryaguna, and defender Achmad Maulana Syarif.

The strategic decision reflects the club's commitment to maintaining squad stability while balancing player development and preserving Arema's local identity. Fitriandi emphasized that the club prioritizes retaining the solid foundation established in the previous season, noting that these players bring both on-field quality and cultural understanding of the club. "We want to maintain the team framework that already exists. They have their respective roles. Besides their quality on the pitch, they also understand the club's culture and serve as examples for younger players," he stated.

The three veteran players carry particular significance for the club. Dendi Santoso holds legendary status as a one-club player throughout his career, offering invaluable experience to stabilize the team environment. Alfarizi, the senior captain, remains essential for his leadership in the left-back position, while Jayus Hariono continues as a consistent defensive midfielder whose work rate is proven and reliable. Together, these experienced players form the backbone of the squad.

The retention strategy also demonstrates commitment to youth development. Bayu Setiawan, Dwiki Mardiyanto, and Dimas Aryaguna—a product of Arema's academy—showed positive progress in the previous season and remain positioned for potential breakthrough performances. Most notably, young defender Achmad Maulana Syarif, who suffered a serious injury last season that sidelined him for an extended period, has been guaranteed a contract to focus on full recovery. Despite earlier appearing on the Indonesian national team's radar due to his promising performances, Achmad faced an uncertain future following his injury. Arema's decision to retain him reflects confidence in his potential and demonstrates a commitment to supporting players through recovery.

The club's approach reflects a broader philosophy that championship-caliber teams are built on more than financial investment alone. While acquiring foreign players at billion-rupiah price tags may be straightforward, the management believes that cultivating character, maintaining player loyalty, and preserving regional identity within the squad represents intangible value that cannot be purchased. This retention of local talent, combined with previously secured foreign players, positions Arema to pursue success in the upcoming season with a balanced blend of experience and emerging talent.