PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir stated that the association ended its collaboration with Shin Tae-yong on good terms, emphasizing that the South Korean accepted the decision with understanding.
"Our relationship is good. I respect Shin Tae-yong, and he accepted this decision very well," Thohir stated in a press release.
He mentioned that the plan to end the contract with Shin Tae-yong surfaced three months before Indonesia's match against China on October 15, 2024.
At that time, he had considered terminating the contract earlier, but the decision was delayed due to Indonesia's tight schedule in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualification in the Asian zone.
Thohir did not specify a replacement but indicated that the new head coach, who is tasked with leading Indonesia to the 2026 World Cup, is from the Netherlands.
"Several names in the football industry are seeking not just employment but also a legacy, including being part of Indonesia's journey to the 2026 World Cup," Thohir said.
He revealed that during his trip to Europe in December 2024, he identified three coaching candidates and eventually narrowed it down to one individual.
The new head coach for the Indonesian football team will be introduced to the public at a press conference on January 12.
Shin Tae-yong joined the Indonesian football team in December 2019 and, during his tenure, successfully raised its FIFA ranking from 173rd to 127th.
In mid-2024, his contract was extended until 2027 after he led the Indonesian U-23 national team to the semifinals of the 2024 U-23 Asian Cup.
In his farewell message, Shin Tae-yong expressed hope for Indonesia's successful qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
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Translator: Zaro Ezza, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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