## Indonesian Football Association Appoints Patrick Kluivert as New Head Coach
former Ajax striker Patrick Kluivert has been named the new head coach of the Indonesian national football team,according to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano. [[1]] Kluivert has signed a two-year contract with an option for a further two years. This appointment comes as Indonesia seeks to achieve a crucial objective: qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Indonesia recently parted ways with their previous head coach, Shin Tae-yong. After a thorough search, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) selected Kluivert, who will be allowed to bring his own coaching staff.Currently, Indonesia sits in third place in Group C of the Asian qualifying zone for the 2026 World Cup. The top two teams in the group will automatically qualify for the tournament, while the third and fourth-placed teams will have a chance to qualify through playoffs.
Kluivert’s primary task will be to guide Indonesia to World Cup qualification. He is scheduled to begin his duties on January 12th.This won’t be Kluivert’s first experience as a national team coach. In 2015, he led Curaçao, where he also served as technical advisor and interim coach in 2021.
### A Seasoned Coach with International Experience
Kluivert’s coaching journey began in 2008 after retiring from his illustrious playing career. He started as a striker coach for AZ Alkmaar before moving on to a similar role with Brisbane Roar in Australia. In 2010, he returned to the Netherlands to coach NEC Nijmegen’s strikers. A year later, he took his first head coaching position with Jong FC Twente, the reserve team of FC Twente. During this period, he also served as an assistant coach for the Dutch national team.
Kluivert’s appointment brings a wealth of experience and tactical acumen to the Indonesian national team. His previous roles, both domestically and internationally, have equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to guide Indonesia towards their World Cup aspirations.
Patrick Kluivert’s Coaching Journey: From Ajax to Indonesia?
Patrick Kluivert, the former Ajax and Barcelona striker, has enjoyed a diverse coaching career since retiring from professional football. His journey has taken him across continents, working with national teams and top clubs.
Kluivert’s first foray into management came with Curaçao, where he served as head coach for a year and a half. Following this, he had a brief stint with ajax’s U19 team before moving to Paris Saint-Germain as Director of Football. In 2018,he joined the Cameroon national team as assistant coach,gaining valuable experience on the international stage.
A return to his roots saw Kluivert take on the role of Head of Youth development at FC Barcelona, the club where he achieved legendary status as a player. He later returned to Curaçao for a second spell as interim head coach in 2021.Most recently, Kluivert was at the helm of Turkish Süper lig side Adana Demirspor.
the Indonesian connection: A Rumored Partnership
In January 2023, rumors surfaced suggesting Kluivert might be heading to indonesia. The Indonesian football association, aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, had appointed Kluivert as head coach. Spanish sports daily Marca reported that Louis van Gaal, currently an advisor to Ajax’s Supervisory Board, was being considered for the role of Technical Director, possibly forming a powerful duo with Kluivert.
Though, these rumors were quickly dispelled. Ziggo Sport presenter Wytse van der Goot confirmed that Van Gaal would not be joining Kluivert in Indonesia.
Looking Ahead: Kluivert’s Future
With his extensive experience and proven track record, Patrick Kluivert remains a sought-after figure in the world of football. His future endeavors will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
Join the discussion! Share your thoughts on Kluivert’s coaching career and potential future moves in our forum.
## Indonesian Football Association Makes bold Move Appointing Patrick Kluivert
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has made a meaningful announcement, appointing former Ajax striker and Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert as the new head coach of the Indonesian national team. [[1]] This appointment signals a clear intent from PSSI to bolster Indonesia’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kluivert, who will be bringing his own coaching staff, has been handed a two-year contract with the option for a further two years. This shows a considerable commitment from the Indonesian FA in backing their new head coach.
The task ahead for Kluivert is a challenging one. Indonesia currently sits in third place in Group C of the Asian qualifying zone for the 2026 World cup. [[2]] While the top two teams in the group automatically qualify, the third and fourth-placed teams will have a chance to qualify through playoffs, a route Indonesia will be hoping to avoid.
However, Kluivert brings a wealth of experience to the role. Not only was he a prolific striker in his playing days for clubs like Ajax and barcelona, earning him legendary status in Dutch football, [[2]] but he also has prior experience as a national team coach. In 2015,he led Curaçao,demonstrating his ability to navigate the complexities of international football management. [[3]]
This appointment is a clear statement of intent from the Indonesian FA. They are aiming high and believe Kluivert possesses the qualities needed to lead them to their first-ever World Cup appearance. The upcoming qualifying matches will be eagerly watched by Indonesian fans, who will be hoping Kluivert can deliver the results they crave.