Kluivert’s Decision to Appoint Sjoerd Woudenberg as Indonesia’s Goalkeeper Coach

Indonesia's national team coach, Patrick Kluivert, has officially appointed Sjoerd Woudenberg as the new goalkeeper coach for the team. Before joining the Indonesian national team, Woudenberg was coaching goalkeepers at Dewa United, a club in Liga 1, since the 2023-24 season. He was brought to Dewa United by head coach Jan Olde Riekerink. After a season with the club, Woudenberg was offered the opportunity to join the national team.

Kluivert and Woudenberg share a Dutch background, which is seen as one of the reasons their collaboration is expected to run smoothly. Dewa United's president, Ardian Satya Negara, explained that Woudenberg’s familiarity with Indonesian culture, having lived in the country for years, was a key factor in Kluivert’s request to bring him onto the national team staff. Woudenberg's experience working with Dutch goalkeeper Sonny Stevens at Dewa United also added to his qualifications.

Ardian confirmed that Dewa United had officially ended its collaboration with Woudenberg, allowing the 38-year-old to fully focus on his role with the national team. He also shared that the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) had expressed interest in Woudenberg, and all administrative processes were complete, with the announcement pending.

At present, Kluivert has four assistant coaches for the national team, including Woudenberg, Alex Pastoor, Denny Landzaat, and Gerald Vanenburg. Interestingly, Vanenburg also serves as the coach for Indonesia’s U-23 national team.