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National Team Coach Position Vacant, Shin Tae Yong Signals Readiness to Return to Indonesia

Wednesday, 22 October 2025 | 10:30

Author: Arif S

Shin Tae Yong
Former Indonesian National Team Coach Shin Tae Yong.
Source: Football Association of Indonesia

After the Indonesian national team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, PSSI and Kluivert mutually agreed to end their collaboration. This raises a big question: who will lead Indonesia in the national team's new journey.

Amid various speculations and several emerging names, one familiar figure has become a hot topic again: Shin Tae-yong.

The South Korean coach previously managed Indonesia from 2019 to 2024. He is touted as the ideal candidate to restore stability and fighting spirit to the Garuda squad.

As rumors of STY's return grew louder, the former national team coach finally spoke up. In an interview with Goalpost, Shin emphasized that there has been no official approach from the federation so far.

"(An offer) from Indonesia? No. There hasn't been any phone call or official offer at all. Nothing whatsoever," he said.

Nevertheless, he didn't rule out returning to coach the national team.

"If an offer comes later, I will certainly consider it. But my principle is: if there's a good offer, I'm open to anywhere."

Shin added that if an offer materializes, his heart would lean more toward Indonesia.

"Even if there's a slightly better offer from another country, but if Indonesia bids with sincere intent, Indonesia will always be my first choice."

This statement feels like a breath of fresh air for national football fans who long for a coach with strong character and high commitment.

During his tenure, Shin was known not only for building a competitive team but also for instilling discipline and introducing a modern playing philosophy into the national team.