John Herdman Takes the Helm of Indonesian Football with Long-Term Vision
The Indonesian Football Association has officially appointed John Herdman to take on a dual role as head coach of the senior national team and the U-23 squad. The English-born coach has been given a two-year contract that includes an option for a further extension, potentially keeping him in charge until 2029. This decision reflects a clear commitment to continuity and long-term planning rather than short-term fixes.
By entrusting Herdman with both teams, the federation aims to create a unified playing philosophy across age levels. Expectations are high, as he is seen as a figure capable of reshaping the competitive mentality of Indonesian football and elevating its standing in Asia and beyond. The long-term nature of the contract underlines a strategic shift toward sustainable development.
Herdman’s reputation was built largely during his tenure with the Canadian men’s national team. Under his leadership, Canada recorded a strong win rate and achieved its most significant modern accomplishment by qualifying for the 2022 World Cup, ending a decades-long absence from the tournament. That achievement was also accompanied by a notable rise in Canada’s FIFA ranking, highlighting tangible progress.
His success, however, is not limited to the men’s game. Herdman previously guided the Canadian women’s national team through a golden era, securing consecutive Olympic bronze medals and establishing them as a consistent force on the international stage. This rare experience of leading both men’s and women’s teams to global tournaments has become a defining feature of his coaching profile.
Before reaching these heights, Herdman accumulated experience across different levels, including women’s football in New Zealand, youth national teams, and professional club football in Major League Soccer. While not all chapters of his career were marked by trophies, they contributed to a broad and modern coaching perspective. This diverse background is now expected to serve as the foundation for Indonesia’s ambition to build competitive national teams for the future.
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