Jakarta (ANTARA) - Patrick Kluivert's plan to scout and select local footballers is part of preparations for the next Olympics, according to Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo.
"Coach Patrick plans to start from the grassroots level, aligning with a series of long-term programs of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), which include preparations for the Olympics," he said during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday.
He made the statement in response to a query about the correlation between Kluivert's arrival and Indonesia's target of qualifying for the Olympics.
The minister then voiced his support for the Dutch coach's plan to travel across Indonesia to scout promising football talent.
"Earlier, Coach Patrick explained that our current primary target is to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers," he said, underlining that an Olympic appearance is a long-term objective.
Kluivert succeeded South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong, who was dismissed on January 6.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan striker arrived in Indonesia on Saturday. He was then officially introduced to the public in Jakarta on Sunday.
A crucial task awaits Kluivert as head coach: leading the Indonesian national team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup by beating Australia, Bahrain, China, and Japan.
The target is to at least finish fourth in Group C of the qualifiers to advance to the fourth round. With six points from six matches, Indonesia is currently third, behind Japan and Australia in the standings.
Kluivert will return to the Netherlands before coming back to Indonesia to watch a national league match on February 8, beginning his hunt for local footballers.
