Dewa United Releases Sjoerd Woudenberg to Join Indonesia National Team as Goalkeeping Coach

Dewa United FC has given its approval for Sjoerd Woudenberg to take on the role of goalkeeping coach for the Indonesia national team. The club’s president, Ardian Satya Negara, confirmed that there had been communication between the club and the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) regarding this decision.

Ardian expressed his satisfaction with Woudenberg potentially joining the national team, reiterating that Dewa United has always aimed to contribute to the development of Indonesian football. He highlighted that if Woudenberg’s expertise could benefit the national team, the club would fully support it.

Regarding the details of the arrangement, Ardian mentioned that discussions with Woudenberg had been smooth, and the terms of his release had been amicably settled. He also emphasized Woudenberg’s exceptional qualities and work ethic as a goalkeeping coach, which he believes will be a valuable asset for the Indonesian team.

Recently, Woudenberg was spotted alongside the coaching staff of the Indonesia national team, including head coach Patrick Kluivert and assistants Alex Pastoor, Denny Landzaat, and Gerald Vanenburg. A photo of the group was shared by former national team player Zulkifli Syukur on Instagram. Woudenberg is currently going through a selection process to officially join the national coaching staff.

Meanwhile, Sumardji, the head of the National Team Body (BTN), has yet to confirm Woudenberg's appointment but advised to wait for an official announcement from PSSI.

Woudenberg, a highly experienced goalkeeper coach, had been with Dewa United since 2023. Prior to that, he had a distinguished career, coaching at several clubs, including SV ARC and KV Mechelen’s academies, scouting goalkeeping talent for Ajax Youth, and serving as a goalkeeper coach at Go Ahead Eagles, Cape Town City, and Orlando Pirates.