John Herdman Appointed Head Coach of Indonesia National Football Team

John Herdman has been officially introduced as the new head coach of the Indonesia national football team by PSSI, the nation’s football governing body. The former head coach of Canada and New Zealand immediately established ambitious yet attainable goals for the team’s future.

In his inaugural address, Herdman emphasized that Indonesia possesses the potential to emerge as a significant force in Asian football and even contend for a place in the 2030 World Cup. However, he underscored that achieving this success will require patience, cultural understanding, and a unified commitment from all stakeholders involved.

PSSI president Erick Thohir echoed Herdman’s sentiments, calling on players, officials, and supporters to fully support Herdman’s long-term vision as Indonesian football enters what he referred to as a “new era.”

“Indonesia is a large football nation,” Herdman remarked. “However, grand aspirations necessitate solid foundations. My immediate focus will be to listen, learn, and deeply comprehend Indonesian football culture before we embark on building something sustainable.”

Herdman disclosed that he has already begun contacting over 60 players to set initial standards and expectations while he begins to shape his squad for future competitions.

“Qualifying for a World Cup is not an overnight achievement,” he noted. “Canada required decades to reach that milestone. Indonesia has taken a significant step – now it is our responsibility to make the next leap.”

Herdman’s hiring is a strategic move, as he is the only coach in history to have guided both men’s and women’s national teams from the same country to the World Cup.

He previously led New Zealand’s women to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2007 and 2011, securing bronze medals at the Olympic Games in 2012 and 2016. More recently, he guided the Canadian men’s team to their first World Cup appearance in 36 years at the 2022 tournament, significantly elevating Canada’s FIFA ranking from 77th to 33rd during his tenure.

“I seek maximum support from players, officials, and football fans who appreciate the process of building a more competitive national team,” Thohir stated. “John Herdman’s vision and experience will thrive only with full collaboration from everyone involved. This marks a pivotal moment for Indonesian football.”

Thohir also expressed gratitude for the positive feedback from media and supporters since Herdman’s candidacy was announced.

Herdman acknowledged the pressures of leading a national team. “Carrying the hopes of a nation can feel burdensome, yet it can also be a source of inspiration. We choose to embrace this pressure as a blessing.”

Additionally, PSSI introduced Cesar Meylan as the performance coach, tasked with enhancing players’ fitness, strength, and endurance – areas identified for improvement.

Herdman has signed a two-year contract, with an option for a two-year extension, and will also oversee the Indonesia Under-23 team to ensure coherence across age groups. His first competitive challenges are anticipated during the upcoming FIFA international windows, including friendly matches scheduled for March. With rising expectations and growing momentum, Herdman’s journey to realize Indonesia’s World Cup aspirations begins now.