RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) officially introduced John Herdman as the head coach of the Indonesian National Football Team on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, following his appointment on 3 January 2026. This appointment marks the beginning of a new era in the technical leadership of Indonesian football, with the aim of increasing the nation’s competitiveness.

“It's an exciting journey coming here with my family to see a new culture, a new country, a new football experience,” John Herdman said on Tuesday.

The decision was made after PSSI evaluated Herdman’s international track record. The English coach is widely known for his extensive experience in building national teams in a gradual, structured, and competitive manner, both in men’s and women’s football. So, what is his complete profile? Here is an overview.

John Herdman was born in Consett, England, on July 19, 1975. He chose a coaching career at a young age and did not pursue a long professional playing career. His coaching journey began in New Zealand through youth team development, which became the foundation of his reputation as a talent developer.

Herdman’s name began to attract attention when he was appointed head coach of the New Zealand women’s national team from 2006 to 2011. He successfully led New Zealand to qualify for the 2007 and 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cups.

These achievements were further strengthened by guiding the team to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a significant milestone that elevated his profile on the global stage.

In 2011, Herdman was appointed head coach of the Canadian women’s national team. Under his leadership, Canada won two Olympic bronze medals, at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

The year 2018 marked an important turning point in his career when he was entrusted with the Canadian men’s national team. Herdman made history by leading Canada to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, ending a 36-year absence since their last appearance in the tournament.

After the 2022 World Cup, Herdman continued his career at club level by taking charge of Toronto FC. He led the Major League Soccer (MLS) club until 2024. After that, Herdman was without a club and was linked with several national teams before eventually accepting an offer from PSSI.

With the Indonesian national team, Herdman’s initial agenda includes leading the team in the FIFA Series in March 2026 in Jakarta, as well as a series of FIFA Match Day fixtures throughout 2026.

In addition to the senior team, Herdman will also be responsible for the Indonesia U-23 national team as part of a medium-term project aimed at ensuring continuity and sustainable success.