The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) officially introduced John Herdman as the head coach of the Indonesian national team on Tuesday (January 13). The appointment marks the beginning of a new era for the Garuda Squad and opens the next phase of the national team’s long-term development following its failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Herdman replaces Patrick Kluivert, who previously led Indonesia to a historic achievement by reaching the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Although Indonesia ultimately fell short of securing a place in the finals, the accomplishment remains a major milestone, as the country became the first ASEAN nation to reach that stage of qualification.
Alongside Herdman’s appointment, PSSI also announced Cesar Meylan as the team’s fitness coach. Meylan will be responsible for improving players’ fitness levels, strength, and endurance—areas considered crucial in coping with the demanding international calendar throughout 2026.
Read also: The Track Record of History Maker John Herdman, Indonesia’s New Head Coach
Evaluation as Herdman’s Initial Agenda
Speaking at his first press conference at Hotel Mulia, Jakarta, Herdman emphasized that his short-term priority is not immediate results, but a comprehensive evaluation of the Indonesian national team’s journey over the past two years.
“I think [in] the short term, it’s always an assessment. You take the time to listen, to understand people’s experiences of the last World Cup [qualification]…,” Herdman said.
The English coach summarized his initial approach into three stages: listening, understanding, and acting. This evaluation is aimed at identifying the gaps that caused Indonesia’s campaign to end in the fourth round, after losing out to Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Herdman stressed that players’ perspectives would be central to the process. As a result, team captain Jay Idzes has been positioned as a key figure. The Sassuolo defender was a regular starter throughout the qualifiers, making 15 appearances, and directly experienced the team’s dynamics during the most critical phase.
“That [means] speaking to the captain, creating a leadership group…,” Herdman explained.
Early Communication and Competitive Tests Ahead
Although he has yet to lead training sessions directly, Herdman revealed that communication with the squad is already underway. He said he has contacted more than 60 Indonesian national team players to introduce himself and to ensure that all potential players remain under his observation.
“I’ve contacted over 60 players to let them know that I’m here, I’m watching,” he said.
The results of this initial evaluation will soon be put to the test. Indonesia are scheduled to compete in the FIFA Series in March 2026 at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta, which will mark Herdman’s debut on the touchline. This will be followed by the 2026 AFF Cup in July–August, and a series of FIFA Matchdays in September, October, and November.
The next major tournament on the horizon is the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, which Herdman described as a crucial stage for elevating Indonesia’s level both regionally and across Asia.
A Long-Term Project Backed by PSSI
Herdman has signed a two-year contract with an option for a further two-year extension. In addition to leading the senior national team, he has also been entrusted with overseeing the U-23 squad. According to Herdman, maintaining continuity in football philosophy from youth levels to the senior team is essential to ensure players can step up without lengthy adaptation periods.
To support his mission, Herdman has brought in Cesar Meylan, a long-time collaborator who has previously worked with him at the national teams of Canada and New Zealand, as well as at Toronto FC.
PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir emphasized that Herdman’s appointment is part of a broader long-term strategy for Indonesian football.
“This is a moment for PSSI and Indonesian football to enter a new era,” Erick stated.
With a demanding calendar, high expectations, and an already established foundation, the John Herdman era with the Indonesian national team has officially begun. His first major test will arrive quickly, and the football public now awaits the new direction of the Garuda Squad under the leadership of the experienced coach.
