Indonesia Parts Ways with Coach Shin Tae-yong Ahead of Key World Cup Qualifiers

The Football Association of Indonesia cites leadership concerns as it plans to announce a European replacement this weekend.

Shin Tae-yong, Indonesia's head coach since 2020, was dismissed despite leading the team to its first-ever third round of World Cup qualification.
The decision was attributed to communication issues and the need for improved strategy implementation, according to PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir.
Indonesia remains in contention for the 2026 World Cup, sitting third in their group with four matches remaining, including a pivotal game against Australia in March.
A European coach has already been hired as Shin's replacement and will be officially introduced on January 11, according to the PSSI.
The team’s recent progress has been bolstered by the naturalization of European-born players of Indonesian heritage, though local talent like Marselino Ferdinan has also played a key role.