Marselino Ferdinan Joins Persija, Shin Tae-yong Gains Additional Midfield Firepower

Persija Jakarta have strengthened their midfield department by completing the signing of Marselino Ferdinan during the summer transfer window. The arrival of the 22-year-old attacking midfielder is expected to bring additional tactical variation as well as add squad depth for Macan Kemayoran ahead of the 2026/27 BRI Super League campaign.

Marselino joins with competitive experience both inside and outside Indonesia. Before returning to domestic football, he gained playing experience with KMSK Deinze in Belgium, Oxford United in England, and AS Trenčín in Slovakia.

Now, Marselino has selected Persija as his next career stop. He cited the club's serious commitment to maximising his potential as one of the core reasons behind his decision.

“Right now what I see is a club that is truly committed and can help me reach my full potential. At this stage my focus is restoring my match fitness and performance levels. Persija is the best possible club for my future,” Marselino stated in an official club announcement on Wednesday.

Marselino carries big ambitions alongside his new club. He intends to deliver maximum contribution while helping Persija push for the league title this season.

“I will always give everything I have, and I hope we can become champions together this year. With our current squad and coaching setup, we are confident we can achieve this goal,” he added. 

Return to Indonesian League Football

This transfer to Persija brings Marselino back to the Indonesian football environment after several years competing abroad. Marselino is a graduate of the Persebaya Surabaya youth academy, before he broke into the club's senior squad between 2021–2023.

After departing Persebaya, Marselino continued his career in Belgium with KMSK Deinze where he remained until 2024. One year later he joined Oxford United for the 2024–2025 season.

His European journey continued when Oxford United loaned Marselino out to Slovakian side AS Trenčín for the 2025–2026 season. This experience across multiple competitions formed part of Marselino's development path before he returned to sign for an Indonesian club.

At international level, Marselino has established himself as one of Indonesia's key players. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, he recorded two goals and one assist.

Further international records include eight appearances, one goal and one assist at the ASEAN Championship. At the AFC Asian Cup, Marselino featured four times and scored one goal.

Meanwhile in AFC Asian Cup Qualification matches, he registered two goals and one assist. Marselino has also made 11 appearances in friendly fixtures for the Indonesian national team.

Reunion with Shin Tae-yong

Marselino's arrival at Persija also reunites him with Shin Tae-yong. The South Korean head coach currently in charge of Macan Kemayoran previously worked alongside Marselino during his tenure leading the Indonesian national team.

This reunion is a notable storyline, as Shin already has full familiarity with Marselino's playing style and characteristics.

For Persija, recruiting Marselino forms part of the club's efforts to expand midfield playing options. Persija manager Ardhi Tjahjoko welcomed the signing, while also expressing hope that the player can complete his physical recovery soon.

“We hope his injury heals as quickly as possible so Marselino can join up with the squad immediately. Everyone here knows just how outstanding Marselino's ability is. We are confident the qualities he possesses will make a major contribution for Persija for the remainder of this season,” he stated.

With Marselino now registered, Persija have gained an additional option in the attacking midfield position. Backed by his international profile and European playing experience, Marselino is expected to bring a new dimension to Shin Tae-yong's side.

For the immediate term however, Marselino's priority is restoring his physical condition and match sharpness. Once his rehabilitation progresses according to plan, Persija hope the 2004-born midfielder can fully integrate with the squad and begin delivering contributions on the pitch.