Rising football talent Ricky Pratama has been conspicuously absent from the PSM Makassar squad list ahead of their highly anticipated clash against Persija. The decision, confirmed by PSM coach Tomas Trucha, stems from a serious legal entanglement currently facing the player: allegations of assaulting his girlfriend.
The U-23 national team player found himself embroiled in legal proceedings after his girlfriend, identified by the initials AD, filed a report alleging violence on Monday, February 16th. Reports indicate that Pratama is accused of committing acts of physical violence, which reportedly left his partner with serious bodily injuries.
Coach Trucha unequivocally stated that Pratama’s exclusion from the crucial PSM Makassar squad for the Persija match is directly linked to these grave allegations. Emphasizing the club’s commitment to due process, Trucha affirmed that both Pratama and the involved parties have been given the necessary space and autonomy to fully address and resolve the matter.
Speaking on the developing situation, Trucha told Antara, “We have information that is more or less the same as what is circulating [regarding the alleged violence committed by Ricky Pratama]. The player and the club are cooperating with the authorities. Currently, we are awaiting the process and feedback from the authorities.” This statement underscores the seriousness with which both the club and player are engaging with the ongoing investigation.
Despite being sidelined from competitive play, Ricky Pratama’s involvement with PSM Makassar activities has not ceased entirely. The talented forward, a key figure in the U-23 national team, continues to participate in off-field routines, including regular training sessions with the squad.
Trucha further elaborated on this distinction, explaining, “I can only work with players who are present at training. And all the players train well, including Ricky. However, for this specific match [against Persija], Ricky is not part of the team.” This confirms his temporary removal is match-specific, allowing him to maintain fitness while the legal situation unfolds.
Meanwhile, PSM Makassar is set to journey to the Jakarta International Stadium to face Persija in a crucial Super League fixture. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Friday, February 20th, with kickoff at 20:30 WIB.
Summary
Rising football talent Ricky Pratama has been excluded from the PSM Makassar squad for their upcoming match against Persija due to serious legal allegations. He is accused of assaulting his girlfriend, who filed a report on February 16th alleging physical violence and serious injuries. Coach Tomas Trucha confirmed Pratama’s exclusion is directly linked to these grave allegations, with the club and player cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Despite being sidelined from competitive play, Pratama continues to participate in regular training sessions with PSM Makassar. Trucha clarified that Pratama’s removal is specific to the match against Persija, allowing him to maintain fitness while the legal situation unfolds. The club awaits feedback from authorities regarding the process.