Persebaya Surabaya’s Limited Rotation: Which Players Haven’t Seen the Pitch?

SURABAYA – As Persebaya Surabaya navigates a challenging stretch in the 2025/2026 BRI Super League season, a growing point of discussion centers on player rotation – or, more accurately, the lack thereof. Through 25 weeks of competition, several members of the Green Force squad have seen remarkably limited minutes, despite frequently appearing on the team sheet. This situation has come to the forefront as Persebaya seeks to regain consistency and build momentum.

The club’s recent form has been uneven, collecting just four points from their last five matches before the Idulfitri break – a win, a draw, and three losses. This dip in results has naturally led to questions about coach Bernardo Tavares’s tactical approach and his decisions regarding squad deployment. Tavares himself acknowledged the need for a thorough review following the recent setbacks, stating, “Now we have to look back at this match and analyze what actually happened.” This suggests a potential shift in strategy, including a possible re-evaluation of player selection.

Limited Playing Time for Several Persebaya Players

Statistics through week 25 reveal a significant disparity in playing time within the Persebaya squad. While some players are mainstays in the starting eleven, others have found themselves largely confined to the bench. This lack of rotation is a topic of debate, as consistent playing time is often considered crucial for maintaining player fitness, morale, and overall team performance.

Aleandro Maulana

Aleandro Maulana stands out as one of the players with the fewest minutes played this season. The 18-year-old midfielder has appeared in the matchday squad three times, but has only been given a single minute of action. Despite his inclusion in the squad, opportunities to contribute on the field have been scarce. This limited exposure raises questions about the pathway for young talent within the team and the coach’s plans for integrating emerging players.

The situation at Persebaya reflects a broader trend in modern football, where managers often rely on a core group of players, particularly in crucial matches. However, the potential drawbacks of limited rotation – increased risk of fatigue, reduced squad depth, and diminished morale among fringe players – are also well-documented. Tavares will need to carefully weigh these factors as he seeks to steer Persebaya back on track.

Persebaya’s recent 5-1 defeat to Borneo FC highlighted areas needing improvement, and the team’s performance will be under intense scrutiny as they prepare for their next challenge. The upcoming match against Persita Tangerang will be a key test for Tavares and his squad, and the coach’s decisions regarding player rotation – and the opportunities he provides for those who have seen limited playing time – will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

Bernardo Tavares, who has managed several clubs including PSM Makassar and currently Persebaya Surabaya, will be looking to address the team’s shortcomings. His ability to effectively utilize his entire squad will be crucial to Persebaya’s success in the remainder of the BRI Super League season. The coach’s assessment of the recent performances and his subsequent adjustments to the team’s strategy will be pivotal in determining whether Persebaya can regain its competitive edge.

The Super League season is known for its competitive nature, and Persebaya’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges will be essential. The team’s performance will not only impact their league standings but also their prospects in other competitions. As the season progresses, the focus will remain on Tavares’s tactical decisions and his ability to inspire his players to achieve their full potential.

Looking ahead, Persebaya’s next confirmed action is their match against Persita Tangerang. The outcome of this game will be critical in shaping their season and determining their path forward. Fans will be eager to see how Tavares responds to the recent challenges and whether he will implement changes to address the team’s weaknesses.

What are your thoughts on Persebaya’s current situation? Share your opinions in the comments below, and let’s discuss the team’s prospects for the remainder of the season.