His statement followed PSSI’s decision to officially end its collaboration with the Dutch coach.
Kluivert was appointed head coach of Indonesia’s national team in January 2025 under a two-year contract. However, after failing to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the partnership was officially terminated on Thursday through a mutual agreement.
“Thank you for the contribution made by Coach Patrick Kluivert and his coaching team over the past 12 months to PSSI and the Indonesian National Team,” Erick stated via his official Instagram account on Thursday.
He added that both PSSI and Kluivert respectfully agreed to end their partnership early.
Erick also expressed appreciation for the 48-year-old coach’s dedication and hard work with the Garuda squad.
“Thank you for being part of the Indonesian National Team’s journey and for fighting together for the Red and White,” he said.
Erick Thohir, who also serves as Indonesia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, extended his appreciation to all Garuda supporters.
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He emphasized that fans’ unwavering support played a vital role throughout Indonesia’s campaign in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, from the first to the fourth round.
Indonesia began its qualification run with an impressive 6–0 victory over Brunei Darussalam in October 2023. Two years later, their journey ended with a 1–0 defeat to Iraq in the fourth round.
“My gratitude also goes to all supporters, players and their families, as well as team officials who fought and supported the national team through to the fourth round. This marks a new chapter in the history of Indonesian football,” Erick said.
He added that PSSI will conduct a comprehensive evaluation following the team’s failure to qualify.
That evaluation, he explained, will form the basis for setting new targets—ensuring Indonesia breaks into FIFA’s top 100 rankings, performs strongly at the 2027 Asian Cup, and prepares for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.
“We will carry out an evaluation and set new goals for the Indonesian National Team—to reach the top 100 in FIFA rankings, compete in the 2027 Asian Cup, and aim for the 2030 World Cup,” Erick concluded.
Patrick Kluivert was officially appointed as Indonesia’s head coach on January 12, 2025, following the dismissal of Shin Tae-yong on January 6, 2025, as decided by PSSI.
The coaching change followed a comprehensive evaluation of the team’s performance and Indonesia’s long-term objectives in national squad development.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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