Aji Santoso Linked with a Move to Arema FC Amidst Team's Struggles

Arema FC is once again in the spotlight following a string of three consecutive losses in the competition. Recently, rumors have been swirling about Aji Santoso potentially returning to manage the club, replacing current coach Zé Gomes.
Many Arema FC fanbase accounts and Aremania supporters have been circulating the news of Aji Santoso’s possible return to the club. Despite this, Aji Santoso is currently coaching PSPS Pekanbaru, who are in the midst of their battle in the 2024-25 Liga 2 quarterfinals.
In an attempt to clarify the situation, Tribun Jatim Network reached out to Arema FC’s management for confirmation. The club's General Manager, Yusrinal Fitriandi, dismissed the rumors, stating that there was no truth to them.
He explained that any potential change in management would require careful consideration, particularly given the tight schedule of Liga 1 matches. Arema FC still has four home games remaining in February 2025, following their match against Persib Bandung in week 20. The upcoming fixtures include matches against Bali United (February 3), PSM Makassar (February 10), PSS Sleman (February 17), and PSIS Semarang (February 24).
Internally, Arema FC remains optimistic about Zé Gomes' leadership. The club’s management has acknowledged the positive changes Gomes has made, particularly in fostering a stronger bond within the team, improving training methods, and emphasizing team unity.
Despite the improvements, the team feels that Gomes still needs more time to fully adapt to Indonesian football. However, the club remains focused on the ongoing competitive fixtures rather than a training center (TC) approach, urging both players and the coach to remain focused on the upcoming matches.