Patrick Kluivert Reveals The Story Of His Meeting With Erick Thohir Before Becoming A National Team Coach

Indonesian national team coach Patrick Kluivert (left) and PSSI chairman Erick Thohir (right) (photo: dock. between)

JAKARTA The new coach of the Indonesian national team, Patrick Kluivert, shared the story behind his appointment as coach of the Garuda team, replacing Shin Tae-yong. In a press conference in Jakarta on Sunday, January 12, the former Ajax Amsterdam and Barcelona player revealed his initial meeting with PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir, which took place long before talks about the position of national team coach began.

Kluivert explained that he had known Erick Thohir for a long time. He even mentioned that he often exchanged views on football with Erick in previous meetings, including Indonesia's matches in the 2023 Asian Cup. However, there has never been a discussion about himself being the coach of the national team.

"I've been in touch with Erick for a long time, we often discuss football, but there's never been a conversation about me being the coach of the Indonesian national team," said Kluivert.

The process of serious talks has only started in recent weeks, after PSSI officially decided to cooperate with Shin Tae-yong on January 6, 2025. Erick Thohir himself revealed that the search for a new coach started at the end of December, taking into account three candidates before finally choosing Kluivert.

"Talking about my availability as a new coach started a few weeks ago. The negotiation process for the contract didn't take long," Kluivert explained, providing clarification on the speculation circulating.

Kluivert signed a two-year contract with an extension option. He was also given an ambitious target by PSSI, which was to bring Indonesia through to the 2026 World Cup. To support the achievement of this target, Kluivert will be assisted by two assistant coaches from the Netherlands, Alex Pastoor and Denny Landzaat, as well as two assistant local coaches.

The appointment of Patrick Kluivert is expected to bring significant changes to the Indonesian national team. With his experience and track record at the international level, Kluivert is now facing major challenges in meeting the high expectations of the Indonesian football public.