John Herdman and Indonesia’s Defining Year: Ambition, Pressure, and a Packed 2026 Calendar
John Herdman has emerged as the strongest contender to become the next head coach of the Indonesian national team, a role that would immediately place him under intense scrutiny. If the appointment goes through, the English coach would step into a demanding environment with little time to settle, as his first year is set to be filled with crucial competitions and high expectations from fans and officials alike.
Herdman’s growing reputation is largely shaped by his work with Canada from 2018 to 2023, a period that culminated in qualification for the 2022 World Cup. That success established him as a coach capable of delivering results while managing long-term development. His influence in Canada was also seen in the way he reshaped team culture and helped elevate the country’s football profile on the global stage.
Those achievements have fueled belief that Herdman could help Indonesia move to a higher competitive level. However, 2026 would be a decisive year, as the Indonesian FA is expected to confirm a new head coach by late 2025 or early 2026. This timeline leaves almost no room for gradual adjustment, forcing the new coach to perform immediately under competitive conditions.
The international calendar in 2026 is particularly intense, beginning with the March FIFA window held in Indonesia as part of the FIFA Series. Additional FIFA Matchdays in June, September to October, and November could see the national team play close to ten international matches across the year. These fixtures are viewed as vital preparation for the 2027 Asian Cup, serving as a testing ground for squad depth and tactical identity.
Beyond FIFA competitions, regional pride will be at stake in the 2026 AFF Cup, a tournament Indonesia has never won despite repeated appearances in the final. Traditional rivals such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia will once again stand in the way. At the same time, the possible launch of the AFC Nations League could further complicate the schedule, adding another layer of challenge that would demand consistency and strong leadership from Herdman from the very beginning of his tenure.
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