Arema FC Dismisses Marcos Santos, Dewa United Becomes Andre Caldas' First Test in the Super League

Arema FC has taken firm action after failing to emerge from their poor run of form in the BRI Super League 2026/2027. The Singo Edan management officially terminated their working agreement with Marcos Santos following five winless matches, with the heavy 1-5 defeat against Persija Jakarta becoming the final straw for the Brazilian head coach.

This decision was announced by Arema FC management on Friday. Arema FC General Manager Yusrinal Fitriandi confirmed that a change in the head coach position was necessary to address the team's current situation, while opening up opportunities for performance improvements in the near term.

"Management has decided to relieve Marcos Santos of his duties and end our working relationship on professional terms, for the mutual benefit of all parties," stated Arema FC General Manager Yusrinal Fitriandi on Friday.

Yusrinal explained that this decision followed a full management evaluation of the team's progress throughout the competition. The club concluded that an immediate tactical refresh was required to give Arema FC a chance to rebuild positive momentum.

The defeat against Persija Jakarta was one of the determining factors during the evaluation. Arema FC conceded the 1-5 loss away at Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

"This was certainly not an easy decision. This was Marcos Santos' second season with the club, and he was well regarded for his deep understanding of the nature of Indonesian Football. However five matches without victory served as a clear indicator that the squad needed new momentum and fresh direction," he added.

Marcos Santos' experience from his first full season at Arema FC ultimately was not enough to avoid his dismissal.

On-pitch results remained the primary consideration as the club works to turn around their campaign in this season's Super League.

Andre Caldas Takes Over Arema FC Coaching Duties

Arema FC has very little time to adjust to this coaching change. The competition schedule continues uninterrupted, with a home fixture against Dewa United scheduled for Sunday 25 October 2026.

To maintain consistent team preparations, management appointed assistant coach Andre Caldas as interim head coach. He will immediately lead the Singo Edan squad for the Dewa United match at Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang Regency.

Yusrinal assessed that Caldas has sufficient credentials to take charge of Arema FC. Alongside holding an official A Pro coaching license, he is already familiar with the players' characteristics and understands the club's internal situation.

"To ensure there is no disruption to team preparations ahead of our home match against Dewa United, we have appointed Andre Caldas as interim head coach," he stated.

Caldas' appointment is the first step taken to preserve team stability during this coaching transition. With limited preparation time, he has been tasked with helping the players move past their recent poor results and refocus fully on the upcoming fixture.

The match against Dewa United also carries critical meaning for Arema FC. Playing in front of their home supporters, the Singo Edan require a positive result to end their negative run and rebuild squad confidence after five winless matches.

Arema FC Launches Search For Permanent Head Coach

Even while preparations for the Dewa United fixture are ongoing, Arema FC management has already begun the process of appointing a permanent head coach. The club is seeking a candidate they deem suitable to return the team to contention at the top of the Super League Standings.

While this coaching change is intended as the starting point for the club's revival, Arema FC's challenges extend far beyond changes on the touchline. The team will also require consistent performances and match results to restore player confidence.

Management confirmed that all administrative matters and outstanding contractual entitlements for Marcos Santos will be resolved professionally, in full compliance with applicable regulations and on good terms.

"We ask for your prayers and positive support, that this rebuilding process will become the turning point for Arema FC's revival," he concluded.