The fifth week of the Russian Premier League, famously referred to as RPL 2026, unfolded dramatically against the backdrop of heavy snowfall that enveloped the city of Krasnodar, transforming the urban landscape into a breathtaking spectacle of Eastern Europe's winter scenery that was both visually stunning and quite symbolic of the season. In a league renowned for its fierce competitiveness, FC Krasnodar illustrated its prowess by proudly securing fourth place in the provisional standings, an impressive feat achieved by amassing 10 points derived from four matches—consisting of three triumphant wins and a single draw—while showcasing an offensive edge by scoring a commendable nine goals, albeit with four goals conceded. Notably, the exhilarating derby match against arch-rivals Spartak concluded in a resounding 4-2 victory for Krasnodar, while a convincing friendly match against Zenit further solidified their position, marked by a 3-1 win. This series of successes provided a significant boost for Arief, who plays a crucial role as the main assistant to the seasoned coach Valery Karpin, fortifying their teamwork and strategies moving forward.
However, as the team celebrated their successes, a troubling storm appeared to brew from Jakarta, delivering disheartening news: in the AFF, the Indonesian national team, currently led by an interim coach, faced an unexpected and debilitating defeat, succumbing to Vietnam with a staggering score of 1-5 in the semifinals. This humiliating outcome led the interim coach to feel compelled to resign, leaving the team's future uncertain. The Indonesian media erupted in uproar, eager to pressure the country's football association, known as PSSI, to act swiftly and decisively. It wasn't long before Erick Thohir, a significant figure in Indonesian football management, sent an urgent ultimatum via WhatsApp: "Emergency call for the national team. You are now the head coach—the jet is waiting!"
Amidst the rising tension surrounding both the team and his responsibilities, Arief found refuge in his private tactical room, located within the penthouse of the club, where he was absorbed in the figures on the tablet screen displaying the current RPL standings. Anxiously, he noticed the 50 unread messages from PSSI, which loomed over him like a dark cloud, heavy with expectations. The league was not only busy but also intense, with an impending, critical game against CSKA Moscow scheduled to be played far away, immediately followed by a Champions League qualifying match against Dynamo Kyiv. Amid the swirling chaos of professional obligations, the Unity Academy had just launched a new Memorandum of Understanding, eagerly setting the stage for the training and internship of 10 Indonesian coaches, poised to begin their learning journey next month. Meanwhile, in stark contrast to his professional turmoil, his family enjoyed the comfort and warmth of their upscale villa, nestled within an elite complex, blissfully unaware of the challenges he faced against the cold, snowy night.
As dawn broke with a silence that felt almost surreal, Arief's phone buzzed to life, illuminating the darkness with a video call from Erick Thohir at an unearthly hour of 2 a.m. Krasnodar time, which corresponded to 7 a.m. Jakarta time. The weariness etched into Erick's face hinted at the gravity of the situation unfolding in Senayan: "Arief! It's a disaster at the AFF—we lost badly to Vietnam, and the interim coach can't continue. At home, the pressure from the national media is becoming unbearable. Minister Dito has issued an ultimatum: you must become the coach now, or we'll have to search for a coach from abroad. The Garuda plane is ready to pick you up this morning."
In response to this complex dilemma, Arief took a moment to compose himself, inhaling deeply before responding with clarity and professionalism: "Mr. Erick, I greatly appreciate your faith in me. My Letter of Intent (LOI) contract for 2027 is clear—once this RPL season draws to a close, I will wholeheartedly take charge of the national team. However, right now, I regrettably must decline this emergency call. My priority is to dedicate 100% of my focus to FC Krasnodar in anticipation of tomorrow's crucial fifth-week match against CSKA, alongside the successful launch of the Unity Academy internship program for aspiring Indonesian coaches. Professionalism must prevail—if I abandon my current responsibilities, not only will Krasnodar be let down, but the future of Unity and my contributions to the growth of Indonesian football could be jeopardized, permanently tarnishing my legacy."
Erick's face registered shock: "Arief, this is the Indonesian national team! This transcends individual loyalty—this is about patriotism! The media claims that you are more loyal to Russia than your homeland, Indonesia!"
Arief, steadfast in his conviction, replied with determination: "True patriotism lies in upholding professionalism. Our objective is to secure a place in the top four in the RPL, and Unity's initiative has established a pathway for 50 young Indonesian talents to make their mark in Europe annually—this constitutes my longer-term contribution, which far exceeds the temporary glory of winning a single national team match. PSSI needs to honor my contract, as in 2027, I will fully devote myself to the national team."
After a moment of silence that felt heavy with unresolved tension, Erick finally conceded: "Okay… I will respect this decision. However, brace yourself, for the media frenzy will inevitably intensify. Tomorrow, PSSI will hold a press conference announcing the new interim coach—you'll remain our advisor. Don't regret this choice later."
Concluding the call, Arief promptly reached out to Karpin at 3 a.m. local time: "Coach, PSSI reached out to offer me the position of handling the national team in an emergency, but I firmly refused—my main focus is the upcoming match against CSKA tomorrow."
Karpin, though drowsy, responded with pride: "Wise choice, son! The media spectacle in Indonesia won't alter our circumstances here. Are the strategies for CSKA prepared?"
Without hesitation, Arief affirmed: "Indeed, Coach. We're ready to implement a 3-4-3 formation, focusing on wingback overload to counter their rapid counterattacks."
The next morning's training took place on a field that was thoroughly blanketed in thick snow, with the senior team engaging in rigorous physical tests, while Arief spearheaded pressing drills to effectively simulate the challenges posed by CSKA. One of the players, Dika, attempted to lighten the atmosphere amid the seriousness of the situation: "Coach, your rejection of the national team offer has gone viral! The Indonesian public is split, with some calling you a hero and others branding you a traitor."
Remaining focused, Arief responded with poise: "Let's not dwell on that, Dika. Right now, concentrate on training to face CSKA—strive to score goals and make assists with your signature attacking flair."
Meanwhile, Karpin, offering encouragement, clapped Arief on the shoulder with respect: "We admire your decision. In this fifth week, we must lock in the target of securing a place in the top four—let's fight for those three points against CSKA!"
Back in Indonesia, the media storm erupted with fervor: the Kompas news portal ran the headline "Arief Rejects the National Team: Focus on Russia!", while Goal media posed the provocative question "Patriot or Mercenary?", and on social media, hashtags such as #GarudaNoArief began trending, amassing close to 500 thousand tweets. Sarah, a prominent vlogger, attracted 5 million views with her provocative content titled "Arief Chooses Professionalism!"
Within the walls of the villa complex, the breakfast atmosphere felt somewhat strained: Natalia, one of his wives, reminded him of the gravity of the situation, stating gently, "The Indonesian media has labeled you a 'traitor.' Are you okay with this branding?"
Arief's response radiated confidence as he explained his rationale: "I'm perfectly fine with this. When considering the facts: my RPL salary of €400,000, coupled with Unity's stable €5 million, ensures consistency, whereas accepting the role of national team coach—given the waves of challenges that may arise—could endanger my reputation. In 2027, I'll bring my all, provided I'm still needed."
Shortly thereafter, a new message pinged on his phone from Sari in Jakarta: "Uncle Erick informed me that PSSI holds you in high regard; the new interim coach is Ricky Yacobi."
Liam, his innocent and optimistic son, chirped curiously, "Daddy, did your snow team win?"
Lifting him into his arms, Arief replied cheerfully, "Yes, my little champion!"
The away match against CSKA Moscow, set in the grand Luzhniki Stadium with a capacity of 60,000 and blanketed in thick, swirling snow, proved to be highly exhilarating, with fervent enthusiasm from both the players and fans. The relentless pressure of the standings weighed heavily, knowing that CSKA stood in second place, raising the stakes of the encounter. As the match kicked off, CSKA struck swiftly, scoring within the first seven minutes, leaving Arief to contemplate a strategy shift. He promptly communicated his directive to Karpin: "Switch things up!"
In the 22nd minute, the tide began to change when Adi skillfully intercepted the ball in a pivotal moment, enabling Dika to showcase his agility as he brilliantly dribbled past defenders and assisted Córdoba, who skillfully leveled the match at 1-1!
As the second half commenced, specifically in the critical 58th minute, amidst a set piece, Sergei executed a precise header, skillfully converted into a goal by Stepanov, nudging the score to 2-1! The climax of the match arrived dramatically in the 87th minute when CSKA appeared poised to equalize; Agkatsev made a spectacular save, igniting a swift counterattack that culminated in Spertsyan scoring the decisive third goal, bringing the final score to a triumphant 3-1!
This remarkable away victory marked a significant triumph! In this fifth week, the top three positions were solidified with 13 points, much to the delight of Krasnodar. RPL media outlets enthusiastically reported, "Krasnodar Succeeds Without Defeat: CSKA Defeated!"
Within the locker room, Karpin exuberantly declared: "You've become a magical Unity director! Our goal of reaching the top two positions is very much within reach now."
Following the match, Arief decided to return home, where he was unexpectedly welcomed with a joyous cluster-style celebration complete with vodka mocktails and the savory delights of satay, which infused the air with a jubilant atmosphere. Sarah observed, "Fifty percent of Indonesians support your 'wise decision,' while the other half are outraged. The Unity internship for the ten Indonesian coaches is set to commence soon!"
Natalia added thoughtfully: "There was certainly tension following your rejection of Erick's offer. But you maintained your composure—your footing is strong."
Raising his glass for a celebratory toast, Arief proclaimed: "With this victory over CSKA, Unity's foundation has been solidified. The media storm may rage, but it shall pass."
Yet, amid the festive atmosphere, a WhatsApp message from Erick pierced through the revelry: "Interim Yacobi lost to Thailand 0-2. Fans are staging a demonstration at GBK, with 10,000 people demanding 'You Must Be the Head Coach!'. PSSI is in crisis—will you reconsider?"
Arief gazed pensively out at the snowy night, resolute in his determination: "No. My focus remains steadfastly on the RPL. My commitment and footing will not waver."
In a journal entry, it was articulated: "With a rational and firm refusal came a string of victories achieved. Could the Unity internship ignite further drama? The next chapter will serve as the ultimate test of professionalism, revealing the true depths of Arief's leadership."