Jakarta, Indonesia – Garudayaksa FC has announced a swift change in leadership, naming Muhammad Ridwan as the fresh head coach just days after appointing Erwan Hendarwanto. The unexpected move comes as Hendarwanto is stepping back temporarily due to health concerns, the club confirmed on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
The decision, while sudden, prioritizes Hendarwanto’s well-being, according to Derry Hidayat, Chief Operating Officer of Garudayaksa FC. “Currently, coach Erwan’s health is not good and requires a long enough recovery time. We inquire for prayers and support for his speedy recovery and return to us,” Hidayat stated, as reported by Bola.com.
Muhammad Ridwan, a familiar name in Indonesian football, steps into the role with the immediate task of guiding Garudayaksa FC through the third round of the 2025-2026 Liga 2 Championship. Ridwan brings a wealth of experience to the club, and the appointment signals Garudayaksa’s ambition to continue its push for promotion. He was previously the caretaker coach of PSIM Yogyakarta, successfully leading the team to promotion to Liga 1.
This marks the second coaching change for Garudayaksa FC in a remarkably short period. Hendarwanto’s appointment had been announced just a week prior, creating a sense of surprise among fans and observers. The club, known as the “Spirit of Garuda,” is clearly navigating a period of transition as it aims to climb the ranks of Indonesian football.
The timing of Hendarwanto’s health issue and subsequent departure is particularly noteworthy given Garudayaksa’s position in the Liga 2 Championship. The club is currently competing in the crucial third round, where every point is vital in the quest for promotion to the top-tier Liga 1. The change in leadership could introduce tactical shifts and adjustments as Ridwan implements his own strategies.
Ridwan’s arrival is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team. While details of his tactical approach haven’t been fully disclosed, reports suggest a potential shift in strategy, as noted by detikcom. The specifics of these changes remain to be seen as Ridwan settles into his new role.
Garudayaksa FC’s squad currently features a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. Key players include Christian Frydek, an attacking midfielder valued at €500k, and Everton, a center-forward with a market value of €175k, according to Transfermarkt. The team will rely on these players to deliver consistent performances under Ridwan’s guidance.
The club’s recent activity in the transfer market has similarly been notable, with the addition of players like Vytas Gašpuitis and Seung-woo Ryu. These signings demonstrate Garudayaksa’s commitment to strengthening its squad and competing at the highest level. The integration of these new players will be crucial as Ridwan shapes the team to his liking.
Hendarwanto’s previous success with PSIM Yogyakarta, where he led the team to promotion, had generated excitement among Garudayaksa fans. However, his health necessitates a temporary step back, and the club is prioritizing his recovery. The focus now shifts to supporting Ridwan as he takes the reins and strives to achieve the team’s goals.
The Liga 2 Championship is a highly competitive league, and Garudayaksa FC faces a challenging road ahead. With a new coach at the helm, the team will need to adapt quickly and maintain its focus to secure a promotion spot. The coming weeks will be critical as Ridwan assesses the squad and implements his game plan.
Fans will be eagerly watching to see how Ridwan’s leadership impacts the team’s performance. His experience and tactical acumen will be put to the test as he navigates the challenges of the Liga 2 Championship. The club’s supporters will undoubtedly be hoping for a swift and successful transition under his guidance.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Garudayaksa FC is their upcoming match in the Liga 2 Championship. Details regarding the date, time, and opponent will be announced shortly. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the club’s official channels for the latest updates.
What are your thoughts on this coaching change? Share your predictions for Garudayaksa FC’s performance under Muhammad Ridwan in the comments below!
