Key Takeaways
- John Herdman, the former coach of the Canadian men’s national team, has been appointed as the new coach of the Indonesian men’s national team on a four-year contract.
- Herdman replaces Patrick Kluivert, who left the position in October after Indonesia failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- Herdman is looking forward to the challenge of taking Indonesia to the World Cup, citing the country’s passion and intensity for football, as well as its large talent pool.
- Indonesia has only made it to one World Cup, in 1938, and is currently ranked 122nd in the world.
- Herdman has experience in taking a team to the World Cup, having led Canada to the 2022 tournament.
Introduction to John Herdman’s New Challenge
John Herdman, the 50-year-old English coach, has found a new challenge in taking over as the coach of the Indonesian men’s national team. Herdman, who inherited a Canadian men’s team ranked 94th in the world and took it to the World Cup in 2022, has been appointed on a four-year contract. He replaces Patrick Kluivert, who left the position in mid-October after Indonesia fell short of making the 2026 World Cup. Herdman is excited about the prospect of taking Indonesia to the World Cup, citing the country’s passion and intensity for football, as well as its large talent pool.
Herdman’s Experience and Qualifications
Herdman has a wealth of experience in coaching, having led the Canadian men’s team to a career-high 33rd ranking in February 2022, en route to the 2022 World Cup. He also led the Canadian women’s team to two Olympic bronze medals before taking over the men’s team. Herdman’s experience and qualifications make him an ideal candidate to take Indonesia to the World Cup. He has a deep understanding of the game and has a proven track record of success. Herdman is also looking forward to spending time in Indonesia, learning the culture, and being fully immersed in it. He believes that understanding the people and customs is crucial in creating a connection with the team and the fans.
Indonesia’s Football History and Potential
Indonesia has a rich football history, with the sport being popular in the country. The country’s top-tier Super League has 18 clubs, and there is a large talent pool of local players. Additionally, Indonesia has a significant number of dual-nationals who could potentially play for the national team. However, despite its potential, Indonesia has only made it to one World Cup, in 1938, when it competed as Dutch East Indies. The team is currently ranked 122nd in the world and 23rd in the Asian Football Federation. Herdman is aware of the challenges that lie ahead but is confident that he can make a positive impact on the team.
The Road to the World Cup
Indonesia’s qualifying run for the 2026 World Cup ended in October with losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The team had opened the qualifying campaign with a 12-0 aggregate victory over Brunei in the two-legged first round. However, it ultimately fell short of qualifying for the World Cup, finishing fourth in the third round behind Japan, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. Herdman is aware of the team’s strengths and weaknesses and is looking forward to working with the players to improve their performance. He believes that with the right approach and strategy, Indonesia can qualify for the World Cup in the future.
Herdman’s Past Controversies
Herdman has been linked to a culture of spying within Canada Soccer, and in May 2025, he received a written admonishment after an independent committee found that he had "committed misconduct under the Canada Soccer Disciplinary Code." Herdman has maintained that he has led with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the game throughout his career. Despite the controversy, Herdman is focused on his new role and is excited about the opportunity to take Indonesia to the World Cup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, John Herdman’s appointment as the new coach of the Indonesian men’s national team is a significant development for the country’s football scene. Herdman’s experience and qualifications make him an ideal candidate to take Indonesia to the World Cup. He is aware of the challenges that lie ahead but is confident that he can make a positive impact on the team. With his proven track record of success and his passion for the game, Herdman is the right person to take Indonesia to the next level. As he embarks on this new challenge, Herdman is looking forward to spending time in Indonesia, learning the culture, and being fully immersed in it. He believes that understanding the people and customs is crucial in creating a connection with the team and the fans, and he is excited about the opportunity to take Indonesia to the World Cup.
