DENPASAR, Indonesia – Former Indonesia national team coach Patrick Kluivert has spoken publicly for the first time since his departure from the PSSI, acknowledging a challenging and ultimately unfulfilling period with the Garuda squad. Kluivert, whose contract was terminated in October 2025 after failing to qualify Indonesia for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, described his time in the role as a “fantastic experience” despite falling short of expectations.
The PSSI’s decision to part ways with the Dutch legend came following a disappointing fourth round of 2026 World Cup qualifying in Asia. Indonesia faced tough competition, ultimately unable to overcome Saudi Arabia and Iraq in their group, extinguishing hopes of a historic appearance in the expanded 48-team tournament. The result drew criticism from Indonesian football fans, many of whom had placed high hopes on Kluivert’s appointment.
Kluivert arrived in early 2025 as a replacement for Shin Tae-yong, who had previously achieved notable results with the national team, though without securing a major trophy. He was tasked with guiding Indonesia to their first-ever World Cup, a goal he ultimately couldn’t achieve. The pressure to deliver, combined with the complexities of Indonesian football, proved to be a significant hurdle.
Speaking recently, Kluivert admitted the target of World Cup qualification was ambitious. “Realistically, it was very tricky,” he told De Telegraaf, as reported by detik.com. “We had to face Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. The fact that we competed, they can build on that.”
The former Barcelona striker acknowledged that his tenure didn’t unfold as planned. Despite the setbacks, he expressed appreciation for the experience. “I certainly enjoyed it, but I also enjoyed my time in Indonesia,” Kluivert said. “Even though it was busy and there were all kinds of things happening. I think it was a fantastic experience. Unfortunately, the results were not what we hoped for.”
Kluivert’s appointment was met with considerable fanfare, given his illustrious playing career and pedigree as a former Champions League winner. Although, translating that success to the Indonesian national team proved to be a different challenge. The logistical and infrastructural hurdles within Indonesian football, coupled with the competitive landscape of Asian qualifying, contributed to the difficulties.
The failure to qualify for the World Cup marked a setback for Indonesian football, which has been undergoing a period of revitalization in recent years. The PSSI had invested heavily in developing the national team program, and Kluivert’s arrival was seen as a key step in that process. The appointment of John Herdman as his replacement signals a new chapter for the national team.
Herdman, who takes over the reins, faces the task of rebuilding confidence and charting a new course for Indonesian football. His debut is scheduled for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026, offering an immediate opportunity to assess the squad and implement his tactical vision. The focus will undoubtedly be on building a team capable of consistently competing at the highest level in Asia.
While Kluivert’s time in Indonesia may have ended in disappointment, he leaves with a sense of gratitude for the experience. He is now set to join the Suriname national team as a consultant, bringing his expertise to another ambitious footballing nation. His move to Suriname represents a return to his roots, as his mother is Surinamese.
The Indonesian national team now looks ahead, hoping to build on the foundations laid during Kluivert’s tenure and under the guidance of John Herdman. The journey to the World Cup may have been delayed, but the ambition remains strong. The upcoming FIFA Series matches will be a crucial test for the team as they initiate to prepare for future challenges.
For Indonesian fans, the memory of Kluivert’s time in charge will likely be a mixed one – a period of hope and expectation that ultimately didn’t deliver the desired results. However, his contribution to the development of the national team program should not be overlooked. The experience gained during his tenure will undoubtedly serve as a valuable lesson for the future.
The PSSI will be hoping that Herdman can build on the operate started by Kluivert and lead Indonesia to greater success in the years to come. The appointment of a new coach represents a fresh start for the national team, and fans will be eager to see what the future holds.
What’s Next: The Indonesian national team will participate in the FIFA Series 2026, beginning next week. This will be John Herdman’s first opportunity to lead the team and assess the squad ahead of future qualifying campaigns. Details regarding match schedules and opponents will be released by the PSSI in the coming days.
