PSSI Continues to Select Local Coaches for Assistant Roles Under Patrick Kluivert

The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) is still in the process of selecting local assistant coaches for the national team under new head coach Patrick Kluivert. Previously, the federation announced that two positions would be filled from a pool of 10 candidates recommended for the roles.

According to Sumardji, the head of PSSI's National Team Agency (BTN), the selection process is ongoing.
"Today we are selecting local assistant coaches, and tomorrow we will focus on selecting a physical coach. From those selected, PSSI will make an official announcement," Sumardji explained.
He added that the aim is to choose the best candidates from a pool of strong applicants. Currently, Kluivert’s coaching staff consists of four Dutch coaches: Alex Pastoor, Denny Landzaat, Quentin Jakoba, and Gerald Vanenburg. Kluivert and his team have been actively scouting players from the domestic league, attending matches like the Liga 1 clash between Persija Jakarta and PSBS Biak at the Patriot Candrabaga Stadium in Bekasi.

"Everyone is watching closely, especially to assess the talent of players who may be selected for the national team. If you ask about their impressions, everyone has had a positive experience so far," Sumardji, who is also an Exco member of PSSI, noted.

Looking ahead, Sumardji revealed that Kluivert’s staff will attend more Liga 1 games, including the upcoming match between Dewa United and Persija Jakarta on February 8, 2025. PSSI President Erick Thohir previously highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer between Kluivert’s team and local coaches.

"This is part of our broader efforts to develop coaching talent. PSSI currently runs nearly 200 programs aimed at training coaches, with almost 5,000 coaches enrolled. The number of licensed coaches has increased by 40 percent, from Level D to A, and even Pro. We’ve also invited FIFA and AFC to contribute," said Erick.

He further emphasized that the goal is to encourage talent development while ensuring local coaches benefit from the expertise of international staff.

"Kluivert’s agreement with us includes knowledge transfer. We’re searching for the best two local assistant coaches who will seamlessly integrate with the team," he explained.

This initiative is part of PSSI's broader strategy to improve the quality of local coaching talent. Erick pointed to the appointment of local coaches like Nova Arianto for the U-17 team and Indra Sjafri for the U-20 team as examples of this commitment. PSSI has also banned foreign coaches in Liga 2, providing local coaches with opportunities to showcase their skills and contribute to the development of the national team.