Greg Nwokolo: Indonesia NT Needs Tangible Results, Not Process Promises

The Indonesian National Team head coach position remains vacant since PFFI ended its contract with Patrick Kluivert last October. Former National Team Player Greg Nwokolo believes the Garuda Squad no longer needs promises of process, but tangible results.

According to Greg, the recent journey of both the senior Garuda Squad and Garuda Muda has been inconsistent. The U-22 team's failure to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 Thailand SEA Games marked the latest disappointment, after finishing second in Group C behind the Philippines. Previously, Garuda Muda also failed to qualify for the 2026 U-23 Asian Cup and the 2026 World Cup.

“We are certainly all disappointed. Because we all hoped the national team would perform better. However, it has happened. We move forward ten steps and then fall back again,” Greg stated in Jakarta on Thursday evening, December 18, 2025.

The statement from Greg, who earned eight caps for the Indonesian national team, reflects the current state of the Garuda Squad. Progress that once seemed promising has stalled again at crucial moments. 

Greg emphasized that this situation demands PFFI to be highly selective in appointing the new skipper for the national team.

The 39-year-old stressed that the next coach must be ready for immense pressure and clear short-term targets. 

He mentioned that the Indonesian football public is tired of rebuilding narratives.

“Whoever the coach is. He must understand that Indonesia no longer needs a process. Because we already tried a process with Shin Tae-yong which was interrupted midway. So don't hire a coach and give him another process. Indonesia already has good players. What we need are results,” said Greg.

The Indonesian National Team Coach, he added, must be ready to work quickly, maximize the player material, and be capable of meeting high expectations, including the dream of qualifying for the 2030 World Cup.(Antara)