The performance of the Indonesian U-22 National Team at SEA Games 2025 serves as a serious warning for the national Football federation. Just two years after clinching the Gold Medal (2023), the Young Garuda Squad stalled at the group stage, revealing the root problem of performance instability.
This situation appears in stark contrast to the achievement of the Senior National Team, which recently advanced to the fourth round of 2026 World Cup Qualification. This gap in consistency demands in-depth study, particularly within the framework of recruiting a new head coach for the national team.
In an exclusive discussion, football analyst Akmal Marhali emphasized that the football world is full of unpredictable dynamics. He cited Italy as an example, which, despite being four-time world champions, can still experience difficult periods. "It is important for Indonesia to focus on building a strong playing climate and philosophy as the main foundation," he stated on the ITSME.co.id podcast. This statement suggests that the task for PSSI is more complex than merely finding a coach.
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Leadership and Lessons from the Past
Marhali stressed that the failure at the SEA Games cannot be viewed solely as the fault of U-22 coach Indra Sjafri and team manager Sumardji, who have both resigned. "Their contributions were real. The existing problems are systemic," he asserted. This approach encourages appreciating the value of every experience undergone as vital material for consideration in recruiting the main National Team Coach.
Candidates and a New Direction for Indonesian Football
Amid the vacant coaching position, three names have emerged as candidates to Replace Patrick Kluivert: John Herdman, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, and Jesús Casas. Much attention has focused on John Herdman, who is considered to have a relevant track record.
Herdman's success in building the Canadian team from the ground up to their appearance at the World Cup 2022 aligns with Indonesia's need for long-term planning and instilling a playing philosophy. The PSSI's upcoming decision will determine the direction: whether to stick with a reactive pattern or choose genuine transformation with a figure like Herdman.
Vital Pillars: Domestic League and Regeneration
Beyond the search for a coach, the health of domestic competition is a crucial factor. The intense battle at the top of the Liga 1 (Super League) Standings between Borneo FC, Persija Jakarta, and Persib Bandung should be seen as the driving engine. A competitive league is the source of quality player supply for the national team. This internal improvement is equally important in the roadmap for the revival of Indonesian Football.
