PSSI is seeking a new coach for Indonesia's national team after dismissing Patrick Kluivert due to failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who has Maluku heritage, emerges as a strong candidate among five names mentioned by Erick Thohir. British media reports he is being considered for the role.
PSSI dismissed Patrick Kluivert on October 16, 2025, after Indonesia's national team failed to advance to the 2026 World Cup, marked by heavy losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq despite reaching the fourth round of Asian qualifiers. Focus now shifts to the 2027 Asian Cup to rebuild the team.
PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir mentioned five coaching candidates, one from the Netherlands. British outlet Football Insider reported that Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Liverpool's assistant coach, is "being considered to fill the Indonesia manager position," citing club internal sources. His chances of leaving Liverpool are seen as possible following initial communications.
Van Bronckhorst, grandson of Lena Sapulette from Saparua, Maluku, was the first Maluku native to captain the Netherlands in his 64th international match. His goal against Uruguay in the 2010 World Cup was named FIFA's best. He joined Arne Slot's staff at Liverpool in summer 2025, replacing John Heitinga, with a 58 percent win record at Feyenoord, Guangzhou City, Rangers, and Besiktas.
Other revealed candidates include Timur Kapadze (ex-Uzbekistan), Heimir Hallgrimsson (Ireland), and Jesus Casas (ex-Iraq). PSSI BTN Chairman Sumardji refused to disclose identities, citing ongoing contracts. "These coaches are still with clubs or national teams. So it's impossible for us to reveal," he said on November 20. Erick Thohir stressed a thorough process: "No need to rush. Give time for the Exco to see who comes out of the interviews."
PSSI plans a press conference this week for updates on the selection, amid Indonesia's long ties to Dutch football through naturalized players.
