Mario Jozic Returns to Croatia, Igor Tolic Denies Exit Rumors from Persib

Persib Bandung goalkeeping coach Mario Jozic is reported to have returned to Croatia after suffering an injury during the team's preparations for the match against Persija Jakarta. The news emerged after Jozic posted an Instagram story implying uncertainty about his future, triggering speculation among Bobotoh that he had left Maung Bandung.

Persib coach Igor Tolic quickly clarified the rumor. According to Tolic, Jozic has not left but must undergo injury recovery in his home country. "Mario Jozic suffered an injury during preparations for the match against Persija. He has undergone several treatments and was not with us in Seoul or Jepara," Tolic explained at the auxiliary field of GBLA Stadium, Bandung, Wednesday (30/9/2026).

Tolic added that Jozic flew to Zagreb for additional examinations to ensure his recovery process runs optimally. "Yesterday he flew to Zagreb to undergo recovery," he added. The decision was made so that the 48-year-old goalkeeping coach can return to fitness soon without the risk of a prolonged injury.

On the other hand, the condition of diaspora defender Sandy Walsh has also drawn attention. Tolic said Walsh had rejoined training sessions but was not yet ready for full training. "You can see he has started training with the ball. He is not ready yet. But he has started joining training little by little," Tolic said.

Nevertheless, Tolic stressed that the coaching staff does not want to rush Walsh back to peak performance. "He feels better, but he is still not ready to take part in full football training with the team," said the Croatian coach. This cautious approach is important given the packed competition schedule ahead.

Meanwhile, the other players are confirmed to be in prime condition and continue to show positive progress. "We train every day. The players are working well. So, everything is fine," Tolic concluded. This statement signals that Persib remains solid despite being hit by rumors of a coaching staff departure.

For Bobotoh, this news confirms that the rumor of Jozic's exit is mere speculation. The team's main focus now is maintaining squad fitness ahead of crucial matches, including against Persija Jakarta, which is always a prestigious fixture. Jozic's presence on the bench later is expected to help maintain the stability of Persib's goalkeepers' performances.

Going forward, Persib's management needs to ensure Jozic's recovery process runs smoothly so he can soon rejoin the team. Meanwhile, the development of Sandy Walsh's condition will continue to be monitored. Will Persib be able to maintain consistency amid the dynamics of injuries hitting the squad? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: team stability is the key to achieving maximum results in an increasingly tight competition.