The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) continues its diligent search for a new head coach to lead the Indonesian National Team, following the conclusion of its collaboration with Dutch tactician Patrick Kluivert. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir has confirmed that the selection process is well underway, with discussions currently revolving around five prominent candidates. The association emphasizes a meticulous approach, unwilling to rush the critical decision of appointing the best leader for the Garuda Squad.
The coaching vacancy means the senior Indonesian National Team will not participate in the FIFA Matchday scheduled for November 2025. However, PSSI is determined to make up for lost time by actively pursuing valuable FIFA points starting next year. The strategic selection of the right coach is paramount, as the association aims to restore the team’s competitive edge in preparation for the upcoming Asian Cup 2027 and the 2030 World Cup Qualifiers.
Speaking on the progress, Erick Thohir highlighted the intensive focus on the FIFA Matchday calendar in the coming year. The former Minister of State-Owned Enterprises revealed that five names are currently being considered as potential candidates for the national team’s top job. “We have FIFA Matchday in November, but the big ones are in March, June, September, October, and November,” Thohir stated in an interview with the YouTube channel Bukan Kaleng Kaleng. He added, “We are re-screening more names, there are already five names. If there are five names, we have to try to discuss with many parties, including PSSI and government stakeholders.”
Thohir clarified that these five names are not definitive, as their availability is still under assessment. The selection process is dynamic, and the door remains open for new candidates to emerge. He recalled an earlier phase where ten coaches were initially considered, but half ultimately proved unavailable. This experience underscores PSSI’s commitment to a thorough and unhurried process, ensuring that the chosen coach is not only suitable but also genuinely committed. “Because these five names are not necessarily available; this is just an aspiration,” Thohir explained. “Actually, previously there were 10 names, but five were not willing; we also need a process.”
While Erick Thohir chose not to disclose the specific names or nationalities of the candidates, he hinted at the diverse international scope of the search. He revealed that the current shortlist comprises individuals from “definitely three or four countries,” indicating a broad search for the ideal candidate.
The discussion also touched upon calls for Erick Thohir’s resignation as PSSI Chairman following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup under the previous leadership. Responding to these demands, Thohir firmly indicated his intention to remain in his post. “Let’s not build a scapegoat. We must all admit fault,” he asserted during a podcast on Bukan Kaleng-kaleng. He emphasized his mandate: “I was elected by voters from regions, from clubs. At that time, there was also an agreement between the government and FIFA, which is why there’s a FIFA office here for transformation.”
With his term extending until 2027, Thohir reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities. He openly invited any interested individuals to contest the PSSI Chairman election in 2027. “This mandate, I must be accountable for it and protect it, and that’s what I said: in 2027 there will be elections, feel free to run,” Erick Thohir affirmed. He urged for an opportunity to work, acknowledging imperfections. “But give us a chance to work with all our shortcomings. And I also don’t want us to always be right; where is there a human who is always right? There are many mistakes. But the continuity of the opportunity to work, we do it with hard work.”
Erick Thohir concluded by expressing his unwavering openness to public criticism and suggestions. He views feedback as an integral part of the development process. “The programs we have today, we try to push them. So, that’s what I hope: with criticism, suggestions, we are open,” he stated. “We are part of the football community. Should I close my ears? That’s impossible. In all opportunities, we must listen to input, and I am not defending myself. I think I am a very open type of person.”
Summary
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) is actively seeking a new head coach for the National Team, following the departure of Patrick Kluivert. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir confirmed that five prominent candidates are currently under consideration, with a meticulous selection process underway due to the importance of their availability. The team will not participate in the November 2025 FIFA Matchday, but aims to secure valuable FIFA points next year in preparation for the Asian Cup 2027 and 2030 World Cup Qualifiers.
Erick Thohir also addressed calls for his resignation, firmly stating his commitment to his mandate as PSSI Chairman until 2027. He emphasized the need for collective responsibility rather than seeking a scapegoat for past results. Thohir reiterated his dedication to fulfilling his duties and expressed openness to public criticism and suggestions as integral parts of the development process for Indonesian football.
