The head coach of the Indonesia National Team, Shin Tae-yong, has officially been dismissed from his position. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir announced this decision during a press conference held on January 6, 2025. Erick stated that this step was taken in the national interest and based on a comprehensive team performance evaluation.
“We need a leader who can implement strategies that are agreed upon by the players, establish better communication, and execute programs more effectively for the advancement of the National Team,” said Erick Thohir. He also thanked Shin Tae-yong for his dedication and cooperation during his tenure.
Successor to Shin Tae-Yong to Be Announced
Erick Thohir confirmed that a successor to Shin Tae-yong has already been chosen. The name of the new coach will be announced at a press conference scheduled for January 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM. With the significant goal of leading Indonesia to the World Cup, Erick hopes this coaching change will bring substantial improvements, address existing shortcomings, and create a more positive dynamic within the team.
“Changing a coach in the middle of qualifications is not a blunder. It’s a common occurrence in football. Every match is followed by an evaluation, and with the remaining games, we are optimistic about improving the team to its fullest potential,” Erick added.
Rumors and Speculations Surrounding the Dismissal
Following this decision, various rumors have surfaced. One of the prevailing issues is Shin Tae-yong’s leadership style, which some consider monotonous, and allegations of a mismatch with one of the players in the Indonesia National Team. Responding to these rumors, Erick Thohir chose not to comment on reports circulating in international media.
“I don’t want to respond to the views of foreign media. However, I appreciate their recognition that the development of the Indonesia National Team is heading in the right direction. Many quality players have joined, and the football philosophy in Indonesia is gradually taking shape,” Erick explained.
He also emphasized that this dismissal was not a rushed decision. The idea had been considered before the match against China on October 15, 2024. However, the tight schedule made today the most appropriate time to make the announcement.
Reactions and Expectations
The Indonesia National Team Manager, Pak Marji, revealed that Shin Tae-yong accepted the decision gracefully. “I have met with Shin Tae-yong. He respects this decision and hopes that the Indonesia National Team will achieve success and qualify for the World Cup in the future,” he stated.
Erick Thohir also dismissed rumors of pressure from certain parties, such as football mafias or PSSI’s Exco, influencing this decision. “I am not a leader who can be swayed by unfounded pressures. The significant changes in Indonesia’s football leagues are proof of that,” he asserted.
New Program and Philosophy
Erick Thohir mentioned that the new coach has undergone a rigorous selection process, including an interview he conducted in late December 2024. The new coach is expected to align the programs of the U-23 National Team and the Senior National Team, establish a cohesive football philosophy, and garner full support from various stakeholders.
Amid all the dynamics, this decision marks a new chapter for the Indonesia National Team. The hope is that this coaching change will lead the Garuda Squad to greater achievements on the international stage, including realizing the grand dream of competing in the World Cup.
