Rumors circulating in Vietnamese and Thai media claimed that Alexandre Polking — widely known as Mano Polking — was set to become the next head coach of the Indonesian National Team. Those reports have been confirmed as false.
Where the rumors started
The speculation first appeared in Vietnamese outlets and was subsequently picked up by Thai media, spreading rapidly across social platforms. The claims suggested that PSSI had approached Polking to replace the current coaching staff.
Polking's response
Mano Polking himself addressed the rumors, stating clearly that he had never been contacted by PSSI. He emphasized that his full focus remains on his role with the Thailand National Team, where he continues to lead the squad.
Polking stated he is fully committed to the Thailand National Team and has not received any approach from Indonesian football authorities.
PSSI and Erick Thohir dismiss the claims
PSSI and chairman Erick Thohir dismissed the reports as psywar — harmful rumors intended to create distraction. Officials characterized the story as a hoax with no basis in fact, urging fans to disregard the speculation.
The episode underscores the importance of verifying football news through official channels before treating social-media reports as credible.