Indonesian national team head coach John Herdman has revealed that he has been in active communication with over 16 diaspora players since officially taking the helm of the Garuda squad in January 2026. This initiative is a core part of his strategy to bolster the national team’s roster ahead of upcoming international agendas.
“Yes, we are scouting several diaspora players. Since my arrival, I have evaluated and personally spoken with more than 16 individuals. It is an ongoing process,” Herdman stated at the Madya Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, on Friday, May 22, 2026.
While the English coach has opted to keep the identities of these potential recruits under wraps, he emphasized that the search for players with Indonesian heritage remains a top priority to enhance the team’s global competitiveness. Herdman believes the unique opportunity to make history is a compelling draw for these players, many of whom hold dual eligibility.
“They could potentially represent Italy, the Netherlands, or other nations with established World Cup histories. However, with Indonesia, they have the chance to be the generation that breaks new ground. I tell this to every player I speak with. Many are receptive, and we will continue to strengthen this team,” Herdman explained, as cited by Antara.
Despite this focus on diaspora recruitment, Herdman clarified that local talent remains a cornerstone of his long-term vision. The former Canada national team coach firmly stated that identifying and developing players from the domestic competition is not being sidelined. “We will not neglect our local players,” he added.
Building a Collective Scoring Threat
Beyond recruitment, Herdman is shifting the team’s tactical philosophy, aiming to move away from reliance on a single focal-point striker. He intends to build a system where scoring opportunities are generated across all lines of the pitch.
“The biggest step forward is for the local players to realize that this team does not rely solely on one striker, but that every player has the capacity to score,” he noted. Addressing the rarity of world-class talents like Erling Haaland, Herdman emphasized that a collective approach is the most realistic path to success for the Garuda squad.
“You cannot force a player like Haaland to emerge overnight. While countries like Canada developed talents such as Jonathan David, Tajon Buchanan, or Alphonso Davies, not every nation is guaranteed that luxury,” Herdman explained. “I do not want to rely on the sudden appearance of one superstar. Instead, we are training this team to score from any position.”
While no new diaspora players have officially joined since Herdman’s appointment, the 50-year-old manager is moving swiftly. Having led Indonesia during the FIFA Series in March, his focus is now set on the upcoming FIFA Matchday in June 2026, the ASEAN Cup starting in late July, and the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
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Summary
Indonesian national team head coach John Herdman is actively scouting and communicating with over 16 diaspora players to enhance the squad’s competitiveness for future international tournaments. While the identities of these potential recruits remain confidential, Herdman emphasizes that these players are motivated by the unique opportunity to make history with Indonesia. Despite this recruitment focus, he maintains that domestic talent remains a crucial pillar of his long-term developmental strategy.
Tactically, Herdman is shifting the team’s philosophy toward a collective scoring approach rather than relying on a single star striker. By fostering a system where players from all positions contribute to the attack, he aims to maximize the team’s effectiveness in upcoming challenges like the ASEAN Cup and the 2027 Asian Cup. This comprehensive strategy seeks to build a resilient, well-rounded squad capable of succeeding on the global stage.