John Herdman Is Revamping the Indonesian National Football Team Ahead of the 2027 Asian Cup

Bogor – Building the Indonesian National Football Team ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is not simply a matter of selecting the best available players. Head coach John Herdman is also tasked with building squad depth, finding effective cross-line combinations, and preparing tactical alternatives to compete at the continental level.

This requirement was the core discussion on the Itsme Podcast, featuring football analysts Erwin Fitriansyah and Sapto Haryo Rajasa. The discussion was held at Sentul Studio, Bogor on Friday, 23 October 2026, hosted by Pudila and Gilang Respaty.

During the session, Sapto highlighted the central striker, or number 9 position, as one of the national team's outstanding priorities. In his assessment, Ole Romeny will perform far more effectively when given freedom to operate just behind the lead forward, rather than being deployed as a static target man.

For this reason, the national squad requires alternative options with different playing profiles, in order to give Herdman greater tactical flexibility. Healthy competition for this position is also critical to maintain performance standards, and provide rotation cover when first choice players are unavailable or suffering drops in form.

Marukawa and the Winger Position Requirement

Taisei Marukawa also came under focus during the discussion. Sapto noted that the Dewa United player's characteristics could add valuable options on the flanks, particularly to enable varied attacking play from both the right and left sides.

Marukawa's potential call up to the national team is tied to the ongoing naturalisation process he is currently undergoing. In an official I.League statement dated 7 October 2026, Marukawa confirmed he has submitted all required documentation, and is now awaiting further administrative approval.

Marukawa has publicly stated his desire to represent Indonesia once his naturalisation process is completed. It should be noted however that this ongoing process does not yet mean he holds Indonesian citizenship, nor that he will automatically meet all eligibility requirements to play for the national team.

In the wide positions, the national team is also awaiting the recovery progress of Marselino Ferdinan and Miliano Jonathans. Both players were discussed on the podcast as players that would significantly expand attacking options once fully fit. Their availability will remain subject to medical assessments and ongoing recovery progress.

Backup Midfielders Remain A Key Requirement

Erwin Fitriansyah addressed the need for additional midfield reinforcements, specifically to provide reliable backup options for the squad's established first choice midfielders. He emphasised that proper squad depth will allow Herdman to maintain tactical balance, while also having alternatives available when required to adjust game plans mid-match.

During the conversation, the names Demiane Agustien and Julian Oerip were also raised in the context of potential young player naturalisation. Erwin noted that their age profile makes them strong candidates for long term contribution. However, their ability to adapt to the squad, fit within the team's tactical system, and handle the pressure of international competition will ultimately decide their chances of selection.

It was stressed that adding new players will not automatically improve the overall quality of the team. All new recruits will still be required to prove their ability in training and matches, as well as adapt fully to the system implemented by the coaching staff.

Challenges Against Japan, Qatar and Thailand

The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will be hosted by Saudi Arabia from 7 January to 5 February 2027. Following the official Asian Football Confederation (AFC) group stage draw, Indonesia has been placed in Group F alongside Japan, Qatar and Thailand.

All three opponents will require Indonesia to prepare every aspect of the national team. Squad depth, attacking efficiency, defensive consistency, and ability to execute game plans will all be critical factors during the group phase.

Upcoming international match windows before the tournament will provide John Herdman with valuable opportunities to evaluate squad compositions and test different on-field combinations. Both new players and those returning from injury will be assessed based on match readiness and their tangible contribution on the pitch.

Ultimately, constructing the national team for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is about far more than just recruiting new players. The core challenge facing John Herdman is to combine individual talent into a cohesive collective unit, ensure every position has adequate backup, and build a squad capable of competing consistently at the highest level of Asian football.