SAGOE TV — Persiraja Banda Aceh made a coaching change after a disastrous start to the 2026/27 Pegadaian Championship with three straight defeats. Jaya Hartono and his backroom staff parted ways with Laskar Rencong, while Muhammad Ridwan was introduced as Persiraja’s new Head Coach.
Aceh – Indonesia, Ridwan was officially announced by Persiraja via the club’s official Instagram and Facebook accounts on Monday, September 28, 2026, just a day after confirming Jaya Hartono’s departure. The announcement featured a graphic reading “WELCOME MUHAMMAD RIDWAN HEAD COACH.”
“Saleum teuka, Coach @mridwan2323. Let’s rise, fight, and move forward together with Persiraja! Lantak Laju!” wrote Persiraja.
The former Indonesian National Team player previously managed Garudayaksa FC, serving as both assistant coach and head coach last season.
According to reports, Ridwan arrived in Banda Aceh on Monday and immediately took charge of Persiraja’s training session. His arrival marks the beginning of a transitional phase for Laskar Rencong following the reshuffle of the coaching staff.
Three Consecutive Defeats Start Persiraja’s Season
Persiraja’s decision to revamp its coaching team stems directly from their poor results in the opening three fixtures of the 2026/27 Pegadaian Championship.
Persiraja suffered a 0-1 loss to Semen Padang FC in their season opener at H. Dimurthala Stadium, Banda Aceh. In their second match, Laskar Rencong fell 1-2 to PSPS Pekanbaru.
Their third defeat came during an away match against Persikad Depok at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, where Persiraja lost 1-2.
These three results left Persiraja point-less at the start of the campaign. Consequently, the management terminated its agreement with Jaya Hartono and his entire technical staff.
Alongside Jaya Hartono, four other coaching staff members also left the club: Muhammad Yasir, Faisal Munanda, Wahyu AW, and Ferry Ferdinand.
Speaking after the match against Persikad, Jaya Hartono previously stated that he took full responsibility for the team’s disappointing performances.
“Whatever decision management and officials take moving forward, I am prepared to take full responsibility,” Jaya said.
Muhammad Ridwan Immediately Prepares the Squad
Following his official appointment, Muhammad Ridwan immediately shifts his focus to preparing Persiraja for their upcoming league fixtures.
Ridwan oversaw his first training session on Monday afternoon. The session provided an initial opportunity for the new head coach to assess the Persiraja squad and begin tactical preparations for the next match.
Persiraja is scheduled to host Sumsel United on Friday, October 2, 2026, in their next Pegadaian Championship fixture.
This upcoming match against Sumsel United will mark Persiraja’s first game under their newly appointed manager.
Now, Muhammad Ridwan embarks on his new journey with Laskar Rencong as Persiraja looks to bounce back from a point-less start to the season.