Not Only Dismisses Kluivert, Erick Thohir Prepares Comprehensive Evaluation for Indonesian National Team

Following the dashed hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, PSSI has dismissed Patrick Kluivert as head coach of the Indonesian national team. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir emphasized that a total evaluation will be immediately conducted for the future of the Garuda squad. 

This evaluation will form the foundation for a new direction for the Indonesian national team. 

"We will conduct an evaluation and set targets for the next Indonesian National Team to enter FIFA's top 100 rankings, the 2027 Asian Cup, and the 2030 World Cup," Erick wrote on his Instagram account.

Erick did not overlook Kluivert's contributions during his tenure with the Indonesian National Team. 

"Thank you for the contributions made by Coach Patrick Kluivert and the coaching team over nearly 12 months for PSSI and the Indonesian National Team," said Erick.

Kluivert, appointed to coach the national team in January 2024, was originally contracted for two years. However, the journey ended earlier through "mutual termination."

"With full respect, PSSI and Coach Patrick and the coaching team agreed to end this cooperation. Thank you for being part of the Indonesian National Team's journey and fighting together for the Red and White," Erick stated.

This decision followed Indonesia's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, despite starting the campaign with a 6-0 victory over Brunei Darussalam in October 2023. Two years later, the dream ended after a 2-3 loss to Saudi Arabia and a 0-1 defeat to Iraq.

Erick also highlighted the national team's greatest strength: public support.

"Thank you also to all supporters, players and their families, and officials who have fought and provided support for the Indonesian National Team, enabling us to reach Round 4 of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers – a historic achievement in Indonesian football," concluded Erick, who also serves as Minister of Youth and Sports.