'Indonesia should not choose Van Persie or Ten Hag to replace Kluivert'

The demand for Patrick Kluivert's removal as head coach is growing stronger after Indonesia's defeat in the World Cup qualifiers, and supporters are paying close attention to the possible replacements.

After failing to secure second place in their group during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, ending Indonesia's campaign, the pressure to remove coach Patrick Kluivert has increased. Many believe the Dutch strategist has failed to make a significant impact despite high expectations to elevate Indonesian football.

In the fourth round of the Asian qualifiers, Indonesia suffered defeats against Saudi Arabia (2-3) and Iraq (0-1), concluding their campaign in disappointment. Numerous fans have urged PSSI to take decisive action against Kluivert, even though his contract runs until 2026.

In response, football expert Gusnul Yakin expressed that if PSSI must replace the coach, they should do so carefully to avoid repeating past mistakes.

“PSSI has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), so logically, Kluivert’s successor should also come from the Netherlands. There are many talented coaches there; the key is to avoid making another wrong choice,” he stated.

Among the suggested names, Gusnul Yakin believes Giovanni van Bronckhorst is the ideal candidate. He also mentioned Robin van Persie, Frank Rijkaard, and Erik ten Hag, but asserted that Van Bronckhorst is the most suitable.

“Van Bronckhorst has more coaching experience and achievements compared to Kluivert. He has managed Feyenoord, Guangzhou, Rangers, and Besiktas. Additionally, he has both parents from Indonesia, which would create a natural bond,” Gusnul explained.

Van Bronckhorst was the captain of the Dutch national team and played for top clubs such as Arsenal, Barcelona, and Rangers. Although he has never coached a national team, he is highly regarded for his pragmatic football philosophy and strong locker room management skills.

According to Gusnul, Kluivert’s successor does not necessarily have to be a Korean coach like Shin Tae Yong, but must understand the characteristics of Asian football, which emphasizes speed and physical strength.

“PSSI needs to demand that the new coach build the team around the traits of Asian football. Kluivert failed because he tried to impose a rigid European style that does not fit Indonesian players,” he analyzed.

The veteran expert also believes that the foundation laid by former coach Shin Tae Yong remains valuable and should be preserved:

“Shin Tae Yong’s legacy should be maintained. Kluivert’s failure proved this. The team needs a coach who adapts to Indonesia, not one who expects Indonesia to adapt to him,” Gusnul concluded.

Currently, PSSI has not made any official statement regarding Patrick Kluivert’s future. However, given the public pressure and poor results, a major coaching overhaul in Indonesia seems highly likely soon.