From Ghana Target to Southeast Asia: Dutch Legend Embarks on a New Challenge

Patrick Kluivert, the legendary Dutch striker, has been unveiled as the new head coach of Indonesia’s men’s national football team. The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) confirmed his appointment on a two-year deal, spanning 2025 to 2027, with an option to extend.

At 48, Kluivert brings a wealth of experience from his illustrious playing career with European giants like Ajax, AC Milan, and Barcelona, where he cemented his legacy as a prolific forward. On the international stage, he scored an impressive 40 goals in 79 appearances for the Netherlands, becoming one of the country’s all-time leading scorers.

Kluivert’s managerial journey has been equally diverse. He served as an assistant coach for the Netherlands, managed Curaçao, and led Barcelona’s famed academy as its director. His most recent coaching stint came in 2023 with Turkish side Adana Demirspor.

Interestingly, Kluivert was once in contention to lead Ghana’s national team in 2014 but withdrew, citing the need for a sabbatical. The position eventually went to Avram Grant, who guided the Black Stars to the final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.

Now, Kluivert is tasked with steering Indonesia, ranked 127th in FIFA rankings, toward new heights. His immediate focus will be on leading the team in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, starting with a pivotal match against Australia on March 20.

With his track record and vision, fans in Indonesia hope Kluivert will usher in a new era for the Garuda.