Herdman’s Player-Centered Strategy Behind Choosing Indonesia’s Local Assistant Coach

John Herdman has introduced a collaborative approach as he begins shaping the coaching staff for the Indonesia national team. Rather than making unilateral decisions, the new head coach is prioritizing inclusivity to strengthen trust and unity within the squad.

A key part of this strategy is involving senior players such as Jay Idzes in the selection of a local assistant coach. Herdman believes that players’ perspectives are essential in identifying a figure who can blend seamlessly into the dressing room and support team harmony.

At this stage, Herdman’s coaching structure remains a work in progress. Only one appointment has been finalized so far, with Cesar Meylan confirmed as the fitness coach, while other roles are still under careful internal review.

The Indonesian football federation has encouraged the inclusion of local coaching talent, continuing a precedent set in previous eras. Herdman has welcomed this idea, but he insists that any local appointment must be backed by honest and constructive input from the players themselves.

For Herdman, feedback from within the squad is a valuable source of insight that complements technical evaluation. By combining these elements, he aims to assemble the most balanced and effective coaching team possible, with local candidates such as Nova Arianto already being linked to the role.