American media openly discusses the World Cup caliber of Indonesia's new head coach

Indonesia's appointment of coach John Herdman quickly drew international media attention. Notably, the American press highlighted the true level, strengths, and limitations of the new Indonesian national team coach, who has participated in the World Cup three times.

According to The Athletic, John Herdman has an exceptionally rare international profile, having led both the Canadian men's and women's national teams to qualify for the World Cup. The Indonesian Football Association emphasized that hiring the English strategist is based on his “diverse track record” and views this as “the beginning of a new era for national football.”

The American newspaper confirmed: “Herdman is the only coach worldwide to have led both the men's and women's teams of the same country to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.” This key detail demonstrates that the true caliber of Indonesia’s new coach lies not in media fame but in proven ability at the highest level of world football.

However, The Athletic does not shy away from pointing out the limitations in John Herdman’s career. The article clearly states that his time at Toronto FC was a significant setback. Herdman left the MLS club after just over a year with a modest record of 16 wins, 6 draws, and 22 losses. The American media frankly assessed that he “struggled with the daily demands of coaching at the club level.”

In a detailed analysis, The Athletic emphasized John Herdman’s core strength lies not in complex tactical rotations but in his ability to build trust within a football culture. The article evaluates: “Herdman excels most in his role as a builder and mentor.”

The article also devotes significant space to Herdman’s greatest career achievement: transforming Canadian football’s mindset. The Athletic asserts: “Herdman changed how Canada’s men’s team viewed their own potential in the race for a spot in the 2022 World Cup.” Before his arrival, the North American team was seen as an underdog in the CONCACAF region. Under Herdman, Canada not only qualified for the World Cup after a 36-year wait but also climbed to 33rd place in the FIFA rankings.

Nevertheless, The Athletic also recalls the drone spying scandal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. An independent report revealed that Canada’s opponent surveillance had existed previously, with Herdman implicated, resulting in a written warning.

In conclusion, the American media suggests Indonesia could be John Herdman’s opportunity to “redeem his image” internationally. The Athletic comments: “Indonesia is a destination where Herdman can reposition himself, not as a brilliant tactical strategist, but as a catalyst who inspires belief and reshapes the foundation of an entire team.”