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PSSI has secured 5 candidate names for Indonesian National Team coach to replace Kluivert, not Shin Tae-yong.

Friday, 21 November 2025 | 06:31

Author: Arif S

Patrick Kluivert
Patrick Kluivert's future remains uncertain after the Indonesian national team failed to advance to the 2026 World Cup.
Source: Antara News

The head coach position for the Indonesian National Team is once again the main spotlight after PSSI conveyed the latest developments in the search for the Garuda Squad's new skipper. Amid public curiosity about the national team's new direction following the failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the federation stated the process is underway.

PSSI Secretary General, Yunus Nusi, confirmed that the search for Patrick Kluivert's successor is now in a crucial phase. 

“The public should be patient regarding the new coach for the Garuda Squad,” he said during a press conference at GBK Arena, Jakarta, Thursday, November 20, 2025. 

He added that PSSI has shortlisted five potential candidates deemed capable of raising Indonesia's playing standards again.

On the other hand, the Chairman of the National Team Body, Sumardji, provided a more detailed picture of the next steps. 

Sumardji emphasized that these five coaching candidates aren't just gathered on a list, but will be studied one by one. 

In the coming weeks, he and PSSI's Technical Director, Alexander Zwiers, will conduct feasibility assessments to find the best name for the future of the Garuda project.

Names frequently discussed by the public are emerging, especially two currently unattached coaches: Jesus Casas and Ange Postecoglou. 

On social media, discussions about both are hotly debated. Both coaches are experienced figures with achievements and positive track records in building national teams and clubs.

However, PSSI emphasized that besides these two popular names, there are several other candidates with strong track records, particularly extensive experience working in Asia. 

The federation considers regional experience a crucial factor for the new coach to quickly adapt to the characteristics of Indonesian players and the intensity of Asian competitions.

One name confirmed to no longer be under consideration is the former Indonesian National Team coach, Shin Tae-yong. 

Although his name is "missed" by many Garuda supporters, the door for the South Korean coach to return is closed. 

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir stated that STY's journey with Indonesia has officially become the past.

This selection process places the Indonesian National Team in a phase full of hope emerging from uncertainty. 

Five candidates are now the focus of evaluation, and the public awaits who will take on the heavy task of boosting Garuda's achievements once more. 

PSSI's decision in the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the national team's direction—both towards upcoming tournaments and building a long-term foundation.