Persija Jakarta is Looking for a New Head Coach After Parting Ways with Mauricio Souza

Persija Jakarta has officially ended its partnership with Brazilian head coach Mauricio Souza following the expiration of his contract at the conclusion of the 2025/2026 BRI Super League. This decision marks the start of a major internal evaluation for Macan Kemayoran as the club works to build a more competitive squad for the upcoming season.

In its official statement, Persija management confirmed the decision was reached after Souza failed to meet the performance targets agreed at the start of his tenure. While he was recognised for establishing a clear playing identity for the team, the final season results were deemed to fall short of the club's expectations.

"Coach Mauricio brought strong character and defined Persija's identity this season. However, as the targets set out at the start of his contract were not achieved, we have mutually agreed not to continue our working relationship," stated Persija Director Mohamad Prapanca, as quoted from the club's official website.

Souza's departure will be followed by the exit of his entire coaching team. Persija confirmed assistant coach Italo Bartole Resende, fitness coach Vitor Branco da Cruz, goalkeeping coach Gerson Rodrigues Rios, performance analyst Caio Araujo, and interpreter Claudio Luzardi will all leave the club alongside the Brazilian head coach.

This step confirms Persija is not only replacing the head coach, but carrying out a full restructure of the entire coaching department ahead of the new season.

Despite ending the partnership, Persija expressed appreciation for all contributions made by Souza and his staff throughout the 2025/2026 Season. The club noted that the group left a meaningful impact on the team's domestic campaign this year.

"We send our well wishes to Mauricio and all his staff: Coach Italo, Vitor, Gerson, Caio and Luzardi. May they find continued success and thrive in their next journeys," Prapanca stated.

During his time leading Persija, Souza implemented a disciplined approach and well-organised playing system. However, inconsistent performances across multiple critical matches prevented Persija from achieving their core season targets.

Club management has moved quickly to search for a new figure that can return Persija to compete at the top end of the Super League next season. The club confirmed the recruitment process for the new head coach is already underway, with an official announcement to be made shortly.

Prapanca reaffirmed that Persija's target for the 2026/2027 season remains unchanged: to win the league championship.

"We will appoint the most suitable candidate to lead Persija to claim the championship title for the 2026/2027 season," he concluded.