Following weeks of speculation and negotiations, PSSI officially announced John Herdman as head coach of the Indonesia national team on Saturday, January 3, 2026. The 50-year-old English coach replaces Patrick Kluivert after the failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Herdman is renowned for guiding Canada to the 2022 World Cup.
The announcement marks a new chapter for Indonesian football after earlier reports of Herdman as a leading candidate undergoing interviews. PSSI technical director Alexander Zwiers led a rigorous selection process, evaluating five candidates in Europe. Herdman's success in qualifying Canada after 36 years was pivotal.
Persija Jakarta coach Mauricio Souza welcomed the news post-match against Persijap Jepara on January 3, stating at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium: "I hope Indonesia can achieve the 2030 World Cup in four years. It's important to have a national team coach now."
Herdman drew parallels between Indonesia and Canada: "A big country with talent, local players, and naturalized dual-citizenship players," he told Canadian Press. He plans to arrive next week to immerse in local culture and connect with players.
His debut features the FIFA series (March 23-31, 2026, in Jakarta), June friendlies, the 2026 AFF Cup, and U-23 Asian Games in September. The two-year contract, with extension option, offers around USD 40,000 monthly (Rp 600 million)—notably higher than President Prabowo Subianto's.
Foreign outlets like TalkSport noted Herdman's past Canadian Olympic controversies alongside his achievements. In Indonesia, hopes are high for 2030 World Cup qualification.
