PSIM Yogyakarta Coach Warns Players About Sugar Intake During Eid al-Fitr Break | Super League 2025-2026 Preparation

BANTUL, Indonesia – PSIM Yogyakarta head coach Jean-Paul van Gastel has issued a pointed reminder to his players about maintaining physical condition during the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday. The break, scheduled from March 17th to March 22nd, 2026, offers a crucial opportunity for the squad to reconnect with family, but Van Gastel stressed the importance of professionalism as they prepare to resume competition in the 2025-2026 Super League.

The Dutch coach, who previously served as an assistant at Turkish giants Besiktas, is particularly concerned about the traditionally sugar-rich culinary landscape of Indonesia during the Eid celebrations. He fears excessive sugar intake could negatively impact the players’ weight and overall fitness levels, potentially hindering their performance upon their return to training. This comes after a recent 2-2 draw against Persijap Jepara on March 11th, 2026, where Van Gastel highlighted defensive vulnerabilities, particularly from set pieces, according to Bola.com.

“We trained hard for several days and then gave them six days off,” Van Gastel explained. “I gave them the break so they can spend time with their families and enjoy the rest, since I think that’s important.”

However, the respite comes with a caveat. Van Gastel emphasized the require for players to be conscious of their dietary choices while celebrating with loved ones. “Indonesian food contains a lot of sugar in its cooking,” he noted, pointing to the prevalence of sweet treats during the holiday period. This isn’t simply a cultural observation; maintaining peak physical condition is paramount for success in the increasingly competitive Super League.

Individual Responsibility and Potential Sanctions

Rather than imposing a strict ban on traditional foods, Van Gastel is opting for a strategy of individual accountability. He believes empowering players to make informed decisions about their nutrition is more effective than outright prohibition. This approach reflects a broader philosophy of trust and respect within the squad, but it’s coupled with a firm warning about the consequences of returning to training in suboptimal condition.

“You have to be aware of what food you consume,” Van Gastel stated directly. He made it clear that any lapse in discipline will not be tolerated. “I warned them to return to training later in fit condition and with a proportional weight,” he added, signaling his willingness to enforce disciplinary measures if necessary. This isn’t an empty threat; Van Gastel, known for his experience working alongside prominent European coaches like Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Ronald Koeman – as reported by Archysport in June 2025 – brings a no-nonsense approach to player management.

The appointment of Van Gastel, confirmed by PSIM Yogyakarta in June 2025, marked a significant step for the club, known locally as Laskar Mataram. The team’s promotion to Liga 1 after defeating FC Bhayangkara 2-1 in a play-off final in February, as noted by Flashscore, has raised expectations for the upcoming season. The club is hoping Van Gastel’s European experience will translate into improved performance on the pitch.

The challenge for Van Gastel now extends beyond tactical adjustments and training regimens. It involves navigating the cultural nuances of Indonesian society and fostering a sense of responsibility among his players, even during a time traditionally dedicated to family and celebration. The Super League is a demanding competition, and maintaining a competitive edge requires unwavering dedication, both on and off the field.

For PSIM Yogyakarta, the six-day break represents a delicate balance between allowing players to enjoy a culturally significant holiday and ensuring they return to training prepared to continue their pursuit of success in the 2025-2026 Super League. Van Gastel’s message is clear: enjoy the festivities, but remember the responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete.

The team will resume training on March 23rd, 2026, and Van Gastel will be closely monitoring the physical condition of his players. The coming weeks will reveal whether his message of mindful indulgence resonated with the squad and whether they can maintain their fitness levels throughout the Eid al-Fitr break.

What’s Next: PSIM Yogyakarta will return to training on March 23rd, 2026, preparing for their next Super League fixture, details of which will be announced by the league in the coming days. Fans can follow the team’s progress and receive official updates through the club’s official channels.

What do you think? Will Van Gastel’s approach be effective in balancing player well-being and competitive performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.