Gerald Vanenburg appointed as new Indonesia U-23 national team head coach

Gerald Vanenburg—currently an assistant coach for Indonesia’s senior national team—has been officially appointed as the Indonesia U-23 national team head coach, as announced during a meeting with PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir.

The appointment follows PSSI‘s denial of rumors regarding Indra Sjafri‘s involvement with the U-23 team, which is set to compete in two major tournaments: the 2026 U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers and the 2025 SEA Games.

“Met with U-23 National Team Head Coach Gerald Vanenburg and National Team Board Chairman Sumardji about the national team player development program,” Thohir stated via Instagram.

“We agreed that program continuity must run in Indonesia’s national teams from U-17, U-20, U-23 to senior levels, without separation, to enable proper talent progression,” he added.

The player development program will focus on identifying and nurturing young Indonesian talents—a strategic move aimed at strengthening the national team’s long-term competitiveness and ensuring a seamless transition for players through different age categories.