Indonesian media collectively excited about having a World Cup-level coach

PSSI's progress toward finalizing a deal with John Herdman has triggered intense responses from Indonesian media, as many newspapers describe it as a daring and unique step for the Asian Cup 2027 goals.

News about Indonesia preparing to appoint John Herdman as the national team head coach quickly dominated domestic media coverage. This is not only due to the new name but also because of the rare credentials of the English coach, who led both Canada’s women’s and men’s teams to World Cup qualifications. For Indonesia, this is seen as a choice “unlike anyone before.”

Bola opened its analysis with a curious headline, emphasizing: “John Herdman, the architect behind Canada’s 2022 World Cup success, can the same happen with Indonesia’s national team?”.

According to Bola, Herdman possesses “enough skills and systematic thinking” to lead Garuda, especially as Indonesia seeks a long-term strategy rather than short-term success. The newspaper also noted that Herdman had declined offers from Jamaica and Honduras, indicating “his serious commitment to the Indonesian football project”.

Bola extensively recounted Herdman’s journey in Canada, calling him “a football prodigy on the global stage”, because “no other coach has ever led both the women’s and men’s national teams of the same country to the World Cup”. The newspaper suggested that Herdman’s ability to build foundations and shift team mentality convinced PSSI.

Meanwhile, Tempo focused on internal PSSI matters. The paper asserted: “The decision has been made; everyone unanimously agreed on John”, quoting a member of the Executive Board.

Tempo reported that Herdman’s selection came after lengthy discussions, and he surpassed other well-known candidates. The article also highlighted, citing Tempo’s sources, Herdman will sign a two-year contract with an option to renew for two more years, reflecting PSSI’s cautious yet strategic approach.

Suara offered a more pragmatic perspective on the objectives. According to Suara, PSSI does not pressure the new coach to win the Asian Cup 2027. The paper quoted PSSI leadership: “The goal for Indonesia’s national team at the 2027 Asian Cup is to reach the top 8”.

Suara evaluated this target as “higher than the 2023 Asian Cup but still suitable for the rebuilding phase”. The article also emphasized that Herdman’s 2+2 contract will be “directly assessed based on performance at the 2027 Asian Cup”.

Another point that caught Indonesian media attention is Herdman’s potential dual role as national team and U23 coach. Suara commented: “It’s rare for a coach with experience in North America and Europe to accept a dual coaching model”, also suggesting this will be a fresh challenge in Herdman’s career.

Nevertheless, Indonesian press did not shy away from doubts. Bola frankly wrote that Canada under Herdman “was eliminated in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup”, but then stressed: “The greatest value Herdman brings is changing the status and mindset of a team previously seen as underdogs”. This is exactly what Indonesia hopes for.

Overall, Indonesian media showed a mix of hope and caution. However, the common theme across articles is consensus that John Herdman is not a safe choice but rather “a calculated gamble” by PSSI, aiming long-term to bring Indonesian football closer to major continental and global stages.