KBRN, Jakarta: European transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said that Patrick Kluivert agreed to become the new coach of the Indonesian national team. The Dutch soccer legend will replace Shin Tae-yong (STY), who has recently parted ways with the Garuda squad.

“Patrick Kluivert has signed a contract as head coach of the Indonesian national team. The deal is done,” said Romano on his personal X account on Monday as quoted by rri.co.id.

“He is contracted for two years with an option to extend for two years. He will be introduced in Indonesia on January 12,” he added.

The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has officially terminated the cooperation contract with coach STY. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir revealed the news at a press conference at Menara Danareksa, Central Jakarta on Monday.

“Of course, we would like to thank coach Shin Tae-yong for his performance so far,” Erick said. He admitted that Patrick Kluivert is one of the candidates for the position of coach of the Indonesian national team.

“Indeed, one candidate I interview is the one mentioned earlier (Patrick Kluivert). But rather than guessing, later on the 12th there will be a press conference for the official announcement,” Erick added.

PSSI had scheduled an official announcement on January 12 at 4 p.m. local time through a press conference. Erick Thohir invited the public to wait for official information and not rush to draw conclusions.

“We have carried out a thorough selection process. On January 12, the media can ask directly to the coach we have chosen,” he concluded.

Kluivert will have a tough task in the Indonesian national team. He is targeted to bring the Garuda squad to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Kluivert will have about two and a half months to prepare the Indonesian national team for the next match. The Garuda squad is scheduled to face the Australian national team in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in March 2025. ***