In recent years, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has taken bold steps to elevate the national team. Following the appointment of Coach Patrick Kluivert with an annual salary of 28 billion IDR, PSSI is making waves with plans to invite former Dutch national team coach Louis van Gaal as Technical Director (TD). This move not only reflects Indonesia’s ambitions but also underscores its strong investment in expertise.
PSSI and the Vision for Development
The appointment of Patrick Kluivert as head coach marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s journey to build a competitive national team. However, the highlight lies in the plan to recruit Louis van Gaal, who led the Dutch team at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups. According to Indonesian newspaper Suara, van Gaal’s expected annual salary as TD would exceed 51.2 billion IDR—nearly double Kluivert’s salary.
This hefty salary is justified by van Gaal’s extensive experience and impressive track record. He is seen as a key figure to improve youth training and enhance the national team’s performance. His success in leading Ajax Amsterdam to the 1995 UEFA Champions League title further underscores his ability to develop long-term strategies for football.
International-Level Investment
Beyond the attractive salary, PSSI hopes that van Gaal’s presence will draw international attention. This could open doors for broader collaborations, from securing major sponsors to enhancing professional exchanges with advanced football nations.
Analyses from Indonesian media suggest that van Gaal’s salary as PSSI TD would far surpass those of counterparts in Japan and South Korea, two leading Asian football powers. Specifically, the Technical Directors of the Japanese Football Association (JFA) and the Korean Football Association (KFA) earn around 23.3 to 31 billion IDR annually—less than half of what is proposed for van Gaal.
Financial Challenges
To realize this ambition, PSSI must prepare a substantial budget. Compensation for outgoing coach Shin Tae Yong alone amounted to over 111 billion IDR. Adding Kluivert and van Gaal’s annual salaries, the total cost could be staggering. Hence, securing major sponsors is crucial for this plan. Additionally, a clear development roadmap is necessary, from improving youth training systems to upgrading infrastructure. Hiring van Gaal is not just about hiring an experienced expert but committing to a goal of elevating Indonesian football to regional and global prominence.
Conclusion
PSSI’s determination to hire Louis van Gaal clearly demonstrates its ambition to boost Indonesia’s standing in international football. Despite financial and management challenges, this move holds great potential if executed correctly. With the involvement of figures like Kluivert and van Gaal, fans have every reason to hope for a bright future for the national team of the archipelagic nation.
Let’s wait and see if PSSI can turn this dream into reality!
Source: Dân Trí
