Jean Paul Van Gastel, PSIM Yogyakarta coach and former assistant to Giovanni van Bronckhorst, expressed surprise at rumors of his colleague coaching Indonesia's national team. He highlighted Van Bronckhorst's Maluku heritage as a possible factor. Meanwhile, PSSI is interviewing coaching candidates in Europe.
Jean Paul Van Gastel, PSIM Yogyakarta coach and former assistant to Giovanni van Bronckhorst, responded to rumors that the ex-Feyenoord coach might take over Indonesia's national team. Van Gastel and Van Bronckhorst collaborated since 2011 at Feyenoord, with Van Gastel as assistant and Van Bronckhorst as head coach. Their partnership continued at Guangzhou R&F in similar roles.
In a press conference ahead of PSIM's match against Persija Jakarta at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Thursday, Van Gastel said he was surprised and curious about the news. "Now he is at Liverpool as an assistant coach. I still don't know the further news, whether he wants to stay at Liverpool or move elsewhere," he stated.
Van Gastel also discussed the possibility of Van Bronckhorst accepting the offer, considering his Maluku heritage. "There are many rumors and names mentioned on social media. I don't know which is true. But considering his background from Maluku, I'm sure he could do it," he said.
Meanwhile, PSSI is keeping the national team coach candidates secret, with five names in consideration. Two PSSI Exco members have traveled to Europe to meet potential coaches. Exco member Sumardji said, "Just wait this week, there will definitely be results. It won't be long."
The Exco is collaborating with PSSI Technical Director Alexander Zwiers, who has been in Europe since Tuesday (25/11). "We will meet in Europe and according to schedule, in the coming weeks, we can directly conduct interviews," Sumardji explained. The Van Bronckhorst rumors draw attention due to his international track record and close ties with Van Gastel.