After a turbulent journey, Nailsworth Town FC now sits in 11th place in the League Two table this season with a record of 10 wins, 6 draws, and 10 losses from 26 matches. They have scored 30 goals and conceded 28, showing steady progress despite still facing internal uncertainties that are not easy to overcome.
In their most recent dramatic match, Nailsworth Town secured a narrow 2-1 victory over a mid-table side. The opening goal came from a sharp cross by Suri, which was finished off with a perfect header by Tom. The opponents responded with a long-range shot that wrong-footed the keeper. However, the final minutes were highlighted by a decisive goal from Amir, who beat two defenders before curling a shot into the top corner of the net, sparking cheers from the crowd.
Despite the victory, internal conflicts remained unresolved. Percy continued to show frustration when several player rotation decisions did not meet his expectations. During one training session, tensions peaked when Percy openly criticised Arief for reducing his playing time, forcing the coach to lead an intense discussion with the entire team to defuse the situation.
Pressure from management and sponsors continued to loom, demanding consistency and better results, especially in the second half of the competition. Roy firmly reminded everyone that the club's strategy must be more focused and financial management must be efficient so that the club does not fall into financial crisis.
On the pitch, Nailsworth Town honed a more disciplined style of play with a flexible 4-3-3 formation. Arief employed a 'high pressing' strategy combined with 'quick transitions' through the wings. Young players like Suri and Amir began to gain trust to bring attacking dynamism, while Tom continued to be the anchor uniting the midfield and attack.
Always, behind the harsh world of club football, Arief found strength at home with Natalia and the children. Regular video calls and loving messages strengthen his spirit, reminding him that all this struggle is for a better future.
Despite all the challenges and obstacles, Nailsworth Town FC moves forward confidently with a new foundation—an unshakable collective spirit, rooted in dreams and hard work, striving towards the peak they have always fought for.
***
That night, the atmosphere in Arief's flat was quiet and filled with anxiety. The important defeat that Nailsworth Town FC had just suffered weighed heavily on his mind. Natalia sat beside him, holding his hand, coaxing out the words that were difficult to say.
"I know this isn't just about losing the match, Arief. It's about what you're feeling inside," Natalia said softly, her eyes filled with concern.
Arief sighed deeply. "I feel like I gave everything I had, but it all seems to have vanished. This team, this club, the academy I built... it all feels like it's starting to crumble."
Natalia stroked his face. "But you're not the only one to blame. We're all part of this story, even when distance feels like a barrier. Your story isn't just about football, but about how you dare to persevere and keep trying."
Slowly, Arief began to reveal the vulnerability he had been hiding. He talked about the pressure coming from all sides—the expectations of management, the demands of sponsors, the disappointment of the public, and the growing tension in the dressing room.
"I'm considering something very difficult," he said, his voice almost trembling. "Leaving the academy I built, which is the foundation of this club's future... I'm afraid that if I leave, there will be no hope for the young generation I've been counting on."
Natalia looked at him deeply, "Sometimes, stepping back doesn't mean giving up. It's when you make room for something bigger to grow. But this decision must come from your heart, not just pressure and fear."
Arief closed his eyes, letting the tears flow slowly. "I'm afraid of leaving, afraid of disappointing many people. But I'm also tired, Natal... there are so many things I have to carry alone."
They embraced, an acknowledgement of weakness and strength. In the silence, Natalia reassured him, "We are family. Wherever you go, that is your home. Don't let the burdens of the world erode who you truly are."
That night, Arief sat back at his desk. He wrote his story in his journal—about dreams, struggles, and choices that were never easy. He realised that a new beginning wasn't just about surviving in the club and academy, but also about keeping his heart intact in the midst of the storm.
***
That evening, after a long and exhausting conversation, Arief and Natalia sat facing each other in the living room of their flat. Dim lights enveloped the room, creating a warm yet eerily silent atmosphere.
"Arief," Natalia began softly, "I know you're carrying a heavier burden than you've let on."
Arief looked away, his eyes appearing weary. "There's a past, Natal. A wound that won't heal. I once lost someone who meant everything to me, and it makes me afraid of falling again, afraid of failing those I love."
Natalia moved closer, taking Arief's cold hand in hers. "That trauma doesn't have to be a shackle. It can be a lesson, a hidden strength."
"I feel like I'm losing control of what I've built. The academy isn't just a training programme—it's hope, the future. But right now, I feel like a stranger there, isolated and caught in conflict," Arief said hoarsely.
In silence, Natalia let Arief release something that had been buried inside him all this time. She knew that behind Arief's strong and firm exterior, there was deep fear and doubt.
Arief continued softly, "I'm thinking of leaving the academy. Letting the problems linger without me there. But it's like leaving a part of myself behind, like ignoring an old wound that hasn't healed."
"Are you ready to give up on that dream?" asked Natalia, her eyes glistening with emotion.
Arief was silent for a long time. "Not giving up, but finding a way so that I can survive without losing my soul."
They hugged, sharing warmth in the cold of the night and the turmoil that had struck.
The next morning, Arief sat in the corner of his office, staring at photos of the academy children. He knew that the decision he was about to make would not be easy. His inner struggle was like waves crashing against rocks, torn between a sense of responsibility and a desire to let go of the burden.
"A great test," he murmured. "But I must be certain that whatever choice I make, I must make peace with the past so I can move forward with a new foundation."
***
The morning sun peeked gently through the curtains, sweeping the room with warmth that contrasted with the fear that still haunted Arief's mind. He sat in his chair, surrounded by training notes, messages from staff, and letters from club management. Outside, the hustle and bustle of the season continued, while he was trapped in a whirlwind of complex thoughts.
The events of the previous night still lingered strongly in his heart. The inner conflict about leaving the academy he had built from the ground up, a legacy that was not just a physical structure but the hopes of dozens of children who aspired to become stars. In the living room, Natalia's soft and understanding voice continued to echo in his mind. He knew that this decision was more than just a career move, but also about letting go or holding on to a part of his soul.
When the phone rang, it was the mother of a young player at the academy, bringing news that her son had been injured during training. Arief's guilt surged—how could he leave these children in the midst of such uncertainty?
At the club, the atmosphere was also filled with anxiety. Conversations between players became increasingly awkward, while tensions in the dressing room were palpable. Tom tried to mediate, reminding everyone to focus on their common goal, even though he himself looked tired and was beginning to doubt the team's future.
Arief attended a tense management meeting. Roy and the sponsors criticised the team's recent performance and uncertain results. They demand concrete plans to accelerate improvement, including strengthening the players' physical condition and finishing in matches. The pressure also affects Arief, who feels the strategic and emotional burden more and more deeply.
However, behind all the pressure, a surprise comes from the tactical side. Lisa proposes a more aggressive formation change to overcome the midfield problem. She encouraged Arief to give more space to talented young players to show their abilities, hoping to revive the competitive spirit and enthusiasm of the team.
After the meeting, Arief invited the core team to an open discussion. He shared his anxieties and fears, inviting them to work together to find a new, healthier footing. With a more confident voice than before, he emphasised the importance of trust, openness, and the courage to face change.
Night fell, and Arief returned to Natalia and the children. Their conversation felt deeper, full of hope and understanding. Natalia shared stories about the strength of family she had experienced in difficult times, inspiring Arief not to give up.
In the silence of the night, Arief wrote in his journal with a hand that was becoming firm and confident:
"A new foundation is not just about maintaining the old, but about daring to open up space for new things that can take us beyond our old limits and dreams. I must be a complete coach, father, and fighter."
***
Arief's second season at Nailsworth Town FC is entering its final stages, filled with tension and big decisions to be made. The club is currently in 14th place in the league table, still caught in the thick of a fierce battle between clubs aiming for promotion and those trying to avoid relegation. The provisional results show 11 wins, 8 draws and 12 defeats, with a goal ratio of 35 to 33 conceded—marking an ambivalent performance, but one that leaves little room for satisfaction.
Arief sits in his office, staring at the computer screen displaying photos of training sessions, match recordings and the players' mental reports. His heart is racing. Doubts began to creep into his mind: should he persevere in this uncertain situation, continuing to fight against the relentless storm? Or should he let go of everything in search of new challenges, at another club that might give him more room to grow?
Meanwhile, news about his family brought a new colour to his life. Natalia and the children had decided to return to America, considering the more secure education and comfort there. This decision was not easy for Arief; distance once again threatened the relationship he had maintained with longing and sacrifice.
In their last phone call, Natalia reassured him, "Distance may separate us physically, but love and family will always unite our hearts. This is not the end, but a new chapter."
Arief felt a surge of emotion and new determination. He realised that whatever his decision, family ties were his deepest source of strength.
On the club side, the determination to end the season with the best results was still burning. The team was prepared to face the last three matches with full focus and a well-thought-out strategy. Arief emphasised disciplined command, building chemistry between young and veteran players, and pushing all elements to show true commitment.
As night fell, Arief wrote in his personal journal:
"This season is the greatest test. Amidst a storm of doubt, I must choose my path with courage and a sincere heart. Family is the light in the darkness, dreams are the foundation I must not let go of. Whatever the decision, I will step forward with confidence on the new foundation I have found."
***
Arief's second season at the club has finally come to an end. Nailsworth Town FC finished the League Two season in 13th place with a record of 14 wins, 7 draws, and 15 losses from 36 matches. With 42 goals scored and 39 conceded, the statistics show progressive growth, albeit still far from perfect. The team has weathered storms of conflict, injuries, and prolonged financial and emotional pressure. However, this final result serves as a valuable lesson and a true new starting point for everyone.
In his quiet office, Arief sat pensively. He stared at his phone screen, which displayed a list of contacts for his family and closest friends. Behind the screen, his heart was filled with anxiety and hope. A big decision awaited him: would he continue to lead Nailsworth Town with all its uncertainties, or would he seek new opportunities that could give him and his family a more stable and future-oriented life?
Arief repeated the moral message he often wrote in his personal journal: a new foundation is not just a step forward, but a turning point to choose the right direction. He realised that in this era of change, the courage to make difficult decisions was the greatest test of a leader.
With trembling hands, he began to contact his wives. His voice faltered as he conveyed all the thoughts and feelings he had been holding back. He told them about the team's struggles, the relentless pressure, and his longing for his family, who were far away. His three wives listened patiently, their sobs occasionally audible as they were also affected by the heavy burden.
"I've thought about everything. I want to stay, but not without conditions. I need support and changes in the way the club is managed so that we can become a family, not just workers," said Arief seriously.
His wives reassured him, "Whatever your decision, the children and I support you. This new step must come from the heart and be for the good of all of us. Don't let fear hold you back, dear."
That conversation was a turning point. Arief felt relieved and optimistic. He immediately contacted the club management and players with a firm and clear attitude—he affirmed his commitment if the situation and support improved, and was prepared to step down if not.
That night, as he wrote in his journal, he poured out his relief and new hope:
"All the storms we've weathered have formed a more solid foundation. Now, I stand at the crossroads between staying and letting go. May this choice lead Nailsworth Town and my family towards a brighter future full of opportunities."
***
After two seasons leading Nailsworth Town FC with a fairly stable final position in the middle of the league table—around 13th place with competitive results but not yet reaching high targets—Arief faced a decisive moment for his future with the club's management.
Roy, the club owner, invited Arief to a tense closed-door meeting. Roy opened the discussion honestly, "We acknowledge your hard work and courage, Arief, in building the foundation of this club. However, two seasons in the middle of the league mean we must consider serious steps for progress."
In a serious tone, Roy responded to the conditions proposed by Arief, particularly regarding financial support, management involvement in the decision-making process, and space for the development of the youth academy. "These conditions are indeed demanding, but we understand that they are also for the future of the club. We will consider and seek solutions together to ensure that your vision remains intact."
However, Roy also stated that the final decision would be based on mutual agreement, particularly the results of the upcoming season and the tangible changes that need to occur. "We want to see improvements and full commitment from all parties to prevent the club from stagnating."
Other management members present also voiced their caution, considering other possible options if the changes desired by Arief were not feasible. Nevertheless, they did not close the door on continued cooperation if there was good faith and a clear plan.
Arief left the room with mixed feelings; he was appreciated but had to be prepared to face major challenges ahead. The pressure to prove himself in the next season became both a motivation and a considerable burden.
Outside the meeting, Arief immediately contacted his wives and children. He recounted the contents of the meeting and expressed his relief because, although difficult, this open dialogue provided room for a new foundation for everyone.
***
The management of Nailsworth Town FC, after careful consideration of Arief's proposals and conditions, decided to reject several key points that were deemed too burdensome and difficult to implement given the club's current financial and structural conditions. Roy conveyed the decision in a cautious but firm tone.
"We appreciate Arief's dedication and service over the past two seasons," Roy said in an internal management meeting. "However, with the club still in mid-table and limited resources, we cannot meet all of his requirements, especially regarding the academy development budget and interference in day-to-day management."
Instead, the management began looking for a replacement coach who was considered more flexible and ready to work within the existing limitations. The names of young coaches from lower division clubs and assistant coaches who were known to be efficient and results-oriented were included in the list of main candidates.
Discussions focused on coaches with a pragmatic and highly disciplined style, who could bring about rapid change on the pitch without making too many demands on management.
Hearing this news, Arief felt mixed emotions. On the one hand, he was deeply disappointed that his efforts and vision over the past two seasons had not been fully appreciated. However, he respected management's decision and took it as part of his career journey, which had been full of twists and turns.
In his final conversation with his wives, Arief said, "This is not just about me, but about how I move forward with integrity. If I cannot bring my best under the conditions that I believe are right, then perhaps it is time to make room for someone else."
He then decided to officially announce his resignation, with a sincere message and best wishes for the club's future. Arief believes that a true new beginning is not just about persevering, but also knowing when to move forward.
***
Arief experienced deep emotional turmoil after management rejected the terms he had proposed. In the silence of a cold English night, he sat alone, gazing at the dark sky from his apartment window. The burden of responsibility as head of the family and coach, which had demanded many sacrifices, felt increasingly heavy.
He remembered how he had willingly left Indonesia to try his luck in this highly competitive league and fight to build his career from the bottom up in a foreign land. But now a big question hung over him: should he return to Indonesia, seek opportunities in another country, or stay and fight on in this tough environment in England?
The option of returning to Indonesia was tempting because he would be close to his extended family, his culture, and the opportunity to build his own football club, which had always been his dream. However, on the other hand, the English league, despite being highly competitive, offered challenges and opportunities that were difficult to find elsewhere. He could continue to hone his skills and forge valuable international relationships.
Arief made plans to contact a number of old contacts in Indonesia to explore opportunities to coach at a developing club. He also began contacting agents and acquaintances in Europe and Asia for the possibility of a broader career. He wanted to ensure that his family continued to receive a decent income and a decent life, without sacrificing his dreams.
On the other hand, Arief did not rule out the option of staying in England, even if it meant starting from a lower position or as an assistant coach first. He believed that his skills and experience would open doors if he kept trying.
When speaking with his wives, Arief honestly shared all his concerns and plans. His wives support whatever decision is best for their happiness and the family's future.
Arief knows this decision is not easy. However, a new beginning is not just about taking physical steps, but also about the inner courage to open the next chapter with full confidence and hope.