Palembang, KOTABARI.COM – Two days before the crucial second-round fixture of the Pegadaian Liga 2 2024/2025 against PSPS Pekanbaru, Sriwijaya FC is in turmoil. The match, scheduled to take place at Gelora Sriwijaya Jakabaring Stadium, Palembang, on Saturday (December 14, 2024) at 3:30 PM, is under threat as players refuse to participate due to unpaid dues.
Over the past week, all 27 Sriwijaya FC players have united in a formal declaration, stating they will not play unless management resolves the outstanding payments, including salaries and down payments (DP). In an official statement signed on stamped paper, they firmly asserted their stance.
“It’s been two months since we received our salaries. Even worse, the DP, which should have been paid upfront, has been delayed for three months,” a player shared on behalf of his teammates.
This situation has also mobilized the team’s supporters, grouped under the Alliance of Sriwijaya FC Fans. They have urged management to address the issue promptly. On Wednesday (December 11, 2024), Qusoi SH, the Capo Tifoso of Ultras Palembang, led a protest in front of Sriwijaya FC’s secretariat as a show of support for the players.
Management’s Efforts to Calm the Situation
Sriwijaya Optimis Mandiri (SOM) Technical Director Indrayadi has appealed to the players to remain loyal to the team and play in the upcoming match despite the unsettled financial matters.
“After all, they are still under contract. I plead with them to play and uphold the honor of Sriwijaya FC. Management is doing everything possible to resolve their payments,” said Indrayadi.
He acknowledged the club’s financial difficulties and called on PT Digi Sport Asia’s majority shareholder, Alex Rusli, to intervene and find a solution. A press conference is scheduled for Friday (December 13, 2024) at 1:30 PM at the Sriwijaya FC secretariat to address the issue.
Focus Shifts to the Play-offs
Amid the uncertainty surrounding the match against PSPS Pekanbaru, management has begun to shift focus toward the Liga 2 play-offs. Indrayadi emphasized the need for team restructuring, including recruiting new players, to ensure their survival in Liga 2.
“Such changes require financial support, which remains the biggest obstacle at the moment,” he added.
Dwi Asa Verano, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chairman for Sriwijaya FC matches, expressed hope that this crisis would be resolved soon to preserve Sriwijaya FC’s reputation as one of Indonesia’s most historic football clubs.
Hopes from Players and Fans
Both players and supporters are now awaiting decisive action from the management to resolve the club’s financial struggles. Their expectations are clear: deliver on promised payments so Sriwijaya FC can refocus on competing and safeguarding their place in Liga 2.