Marc Klok to Oxford United: Let Us Win the President’s Cup

Persib captain jokes with Marselino Ferdinan and international clubs ahead of 2025 pre-season tournament.

JAKARTA, July 4, 2025 — Ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 President’s Cup, Marc Klok has delivered a lighthearted message to Oxford United, asking them not to take the competition too seriously — so Persib Bandung can win it.

“We’re going for the title,” Klok said with a smile.

“So I hope Marselino and Oxford United will go easy on us!”

The Persib captain’s comment was made in jest, but it reflects his serious ambition to lift the trophy in what has become Southeast Asia’s most exciting pre-season tournament.

Six teams, two groups, one goal: President’s Cup kicks off July 6

The 2025 President’s Cup officially kicks off on July 6, 2025, featuring six participating teams — including two international clubs:

• Oxford United (England)

• Port FC (Thailand)

• Persib Bandung

• Arema FC

• Dewa United

• Liga Indonesia All Star

The teams are divided into two groups:

• Group A: Oxford United, Dewa United, Liga Indonesia All Star

• Group B: Persib Bandung, Arema FC, Port FC

This format means Persib and Oxford United won’t face each other in the group stage, but a knockout clash remains possible, setting up a potential meeting between Klok and his Indonesia national teammate Marselino Ferdinan, who plays for Oxford.

Klok: “We want to win this tournament”

While Klok’s comment was made in good humor, his intent is serious. The midfielder emphasized that Persib are not just participating — they’re aiming to win.

“It’s more than just pre-season. This is a chance to test our team and build a winning mentality before Liga 1 begins,” he added.

Persib recently welcomed Saddil Ramdani as a new signing and are expected to field a competitive lineup as they face Arema FC and Port FC in Group B.

High-stakes preparation ahead of Liga 1

The President’s Cup serves as a crucial tune-up ahead of the 2025–2026 Liga 1 season. With growing local talent, a passionate fan base, and strong leadership under Klok, Persib are widely seen as title contenders this year.

As the friendly banter heats up, all eyes will be on whether Maung Bandung can turn their ambition into silverware — or whether Marselino and Oxford United will answer Klok’s playful challenge on the pitch.