Jakarta. The Indonesian Football Association, or PSSI, is set to announce the new coach for the national team soon, as the seat has been left empty since the Dutch-born Patrick Kluivert’s exit in October. 

PSSI deputy chairman Zainudin Amali revealed Monday that Indonesia had decided on who would coach the Garuda squad.

“We have finished the entire [selection] process,” Amali said.

He went on to say that PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir was not involved in picking the next coach. Erick has entirely entrusted the process to the executive committee (exco) and the national team body. However, Amali did not disclose the exact date of when the association would reveal Kluivert’s successor, including more details of this individual.

Some exco members had interviewed candidates in Europe. Speculations have also emerged as Indonesia counts down to the big reveal. Just a few days ago, Canadian Soccer Daily reported that John Herdman would assume the role at a salary worth $40,000 per month. Born in England, Herdman used to be the Canadian national team and Toronto FC head coach. 

Amali refused to comment on the reports.

“It’s Mr. Erick Thohir who will announce it,” Amali said.

In mid-October, PSSI terminated Kluivert’s contract after the national team lost its ticket to the 2026 World Cup. The former Ajax striker was subject to public scrutiny with the hashtags #KluivertOut and #PatrickOut trending on social media. Kluivert’s tenure in Indonesia was brief, just ten months into a contract through 2027. He replaced South Korean national Shin Tae Yong, who was at the helm for four years. Shin Tae-Yong also remains popular among Indonesian fans to this day.

Football enjoys massive popularity in Indonesia.

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