[EKSKLUSIF] Patrick Kluivert, Pelatih Baru Timnas | Mata Najwa

Summary

In this interview, Patrick, the newly appointed head coach of the Indonesian national football team, shares his excitement about the role and his vision for the team. He emphasizes his belief in implementing offensive, organized football and fostering a positive team atmosphere. Despite facing criticism on social media and skepticism regarding his coaching experience, Patrick remains focused on achieving positive results and leading Indonesia to World Cup qualification. He values both local and naturalized players and is committed to improving the team's performance in the upcoming qualifiers, aiming for a strong start with seven points in the next four crucial games.

Takeaways

• 😀 Patrick is excited to coach the Indonesian national football team due to the quality of players and the passion for football in the country.
• 😀 He had met Eric in the past and developed a good connection, but discussions about coaching started more seriously a few weeks before his acceptance.
• 😀 The Indonesian Football Federation approached him through his agent, and after considering other offers, Patrick felt this was the best opportunity to implement his vision.
• 😀 Patrick signed a two-year contract with the Federation until 2027, with extension options, and values the opportunity to coach such a big football nation.
• 😀 While Patrick is not yet very familiar with the current state of Indonesian football, he plans to visit the country often and observe clubs and players closely.
• 😀 Patrick believes the Indonesian national team has good potential but will work to improve the team's collective performance and individual skills.
• 😀 The past performances of the national team in the World Cup Asian qualifiers were good, but there are still areas for improvement to reach the next level.
• 😀 Patrick acknowledges the heated debate surrounding the decision to replace the previous coach, Shintai, and shows respect for his achievements.
• 😀 Patrick does not take criticism personally and aims to change the public's skepticism through positive results and a strong team effort.
• 😀 He emphasizes the importance of a clear and positive atmosphere in the locker room, ensuring players understand their roles and what is expected of them.
• 😀 Patrick is committed to playing attractive, offensive football while organizing the team effectively and is ready to make adjustments to suit the Indonesian players' strengths.

Q & A

What excites you the most about the opportunity to coach the Indonesian national football team?

The quality of the players and the passion for football in Indonesia excites me the most. The opportunity to coach such a big football nation and work towards World Cup qualification is something I find highly motivating.

When did the discussions about you coaching the Indonesian national team begin to get serious?

The discussions started becoming more serious a few weeks to months ago, around November and December.

What factors influenced your decision to accept the offer from the Indonesian Football Federation?

The whole package was important, including the vision I share with Eric and the opportunities to implement my football philosophy with the current team. The decision was not difficult because of these positive factors.

You mentioned you have a two-year contract with an extension option. What is the value of this contract?

The value of the contract is not something I need to discuss, but for me, the true value lies in the opportunity to coach Indonesia and implement my vision for the team.

How familiar are you with the current state of Indonesian football, and how do you plan to improve the national team?

I'm not yet fully familiar, but I will spend time in Indonesia to observe the clubs and players. I believe the national team has a lot of potential, and my focus will be on improving their performance through collective teamwork.

What are your thoughts on the Indonesian team's past performances in World Cup qualifiers?

I think the team did a good job under the previous coach, Shin Tae-yong. The results were positive, and the team has big opportunities going forward. I aim to build on that foundation.

How do you plan to handle the immense pressure from Indonesian football fans, especially on social media?

I accept that social media will have mixed reactions, but I don't take it personally. My goal is to prove myself through results, and I hope to gain the support of the fans over time.

How would you describe your leadership style as the head coach of the national team?

I am an open-minded leader who values collaboration. I listen to my assistants and players, but in the end, I make the final decisions. I also maintain a positive atmosphere in the locker room.

You mentioned 'Total Football' as part of your philosophy. Can you explain how this style will suit the Indonesian players?

Total Football suits the Indonesian players because they are skillful and capable of playing an attacking, possession-based style. I believe this philosophy will work well with the current team.

Given the mix of naturalized and local players, how do you plan to integrate them into the team?

The local players are the heart of the team, and I believe they should play a key role. Naturalized players will also be important, but the strongest players will be selected based on their performances.