Jakarta. The search for Indonesia’s next senior national team coach is entering its final stretch, with the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) signaling an announcement could come as soon as next week.

Following Patrick Kluivert’s departure, speculation has been rampant, but PSSI has remained tight-lipped while its internal selection process wraps up. Secretary-General Yunus Nusi confirmed Tuesday that the federation is in the final stages of vetting candidates.

“As soon as possible, God willing, it will be announced. At the latest, perhaps next week,” he said after attending the East Java PSSI Congress in Surabaya.

Yunus declined to reveal how many candidates are in contention or confirm names circulating in the media, including former Uzbekistan coach Timur Kapadze. “The names will be announced at the first opportunity by the PSSI chairman,” he said.

According to Sumardji, chairman of the National Team Committee, five candidates are under consideration. Rumors have linked figures such as Kapadze, former Iraq coach Jesus Casas, Iceland’s Heimir Hallgrimsson (currently with Ireland in World Cup qualifiers), and Persib Bandung’s Bojan Hodak, though the latter has been denied by his club.

There’s no set timeline for the final appointment, as PSSI insists on thorough discussions with potential coaches. “We are moving as quickly as possible so our coach can be in place soon,” Yunus concluded.

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