In the world of Indonesian football, a young talent has begun to shine, reminiscent of a well-known name. Fabio Azkairawan, with his exceptional throw-ins, is already drawing comparisons to Pratama Arhan. But who is Fabio, and what makes him stand out at such a young age?
Fabio Azkairawan was born on February 29, 2008, in Tulang Bawang, Lampung. From a young age, Fabio displayed a passion for football. His early training took place at the ASIOP Academy, a nurturing ground for many Indonesian football talents. It was here that Fabio began to develop the skills that would set him apart from his peers.
Fabio’s journey took a significant turn when he joined Persija Jakarta U-16. His time with Persija was marked by rapid development and a growing reputation for his exceptional throw-ins. It was during his stint in the Elite Pro Academy (EPA) U-16 that Fabio’s talent for long throw-ins became widely recognized. His ability to launch the ball deep into the opponent’s territory from a throw-in is a skill that has been honed over years of practice.
Fabio’s hard work paid off when he was selected to join the Indonesian U-16 national team. Under the guidance of coach Nova Arianto, Fabio was given the opportunity to showcase his skills on an international stage. In the opening match of the AFF U-16 Championship 2024, held on June 21, 2024, at the Manahan Stadium in Solo, Fabio made a significant impact. Although he didn’t score, his long throw-in assisted Mierza Firjatullah’s opening goal, setting the tone for a 3-0 victory over Singapore.
The football community has been quick to draw parallels between Fabio and Pratama Arhan, a player renowned for his powerful throw-ins. Arhan, who currently plays for Suwon FC, has been a pivotal figure in Indonesian football with his ability to turn throw-ins into scoring opportunities. Fabio, with his similar prowess, has been dubbed the “next Pratama Arhan.” Coach Nova Arianto himself acknowledged the similarities but emphasized that Fabio still has room for growth and refinement in this specialized skill.
One of Fabio’s notable qualities is his versatility. He can effectively play as both a left-back and a right-back, providing his team with valuable flexibility. This adaptability, combined with his defensive skills and offensive contributions, makes him a crucial asset to any team he plays for.
While Fabio’s journey has been impressive so far, the road ahead is long and filled with challenges. As he continues to develop his skills and gain more experience, the potential for him to become a mainstay in the senior national team grows. His dedication, coupled with the guidance of his coaches, will be key in shaping his future.