‘Indonesia Is My First Choice,’ Says Shin Tae-yong on Possible Return
Jakarta. South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong said he is open to returning as Indonesia’s national football team coach but confirmed that he has yet to receive an official offer from the country’s football association, PSSI.
“If there’s an offer, I’ll consider it. My principle is simple, I’m open to any good opportunity wherever it comes from,” the 55-year-old told Goalpost Asia’s YouTube channel on Tuesday.
“To be honest, my heart still leans toward Indonesia,” Shin added. “Even if another country offers me something slightly better, if Indonesia comes with genuine intent, it will always be my first choice.”
Shin previously managed Indonesia from 2020 to early 2025, leading the Garuda squad through a period of revival that saw improvements across all levels, from the senior team to youth sides. However, his tenure was cut short in January 2025, just months before Indonesia’s campaign for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He was replaced by former Dutch international Patrick Kluivert, but Kluivert failed to guide Indonesia through the fourth round of World Cup qualifiers after losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, leaving Indonesia at the bottom of Group B.
Shin’s name has resurfaced among Indonesian football fans eager for his return, especially as PSSI searches for a new head coach. Other names reportedly being considered include Jesus Casas (former Iraq coach), Bernardo Tavares, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, and Phillip Cocu.
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