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The upcoming 2026 AFF Cup is slated for July and August, marking a shift from its traditional year-end scheduling. This change presents both opportunities and challenges for national teams across Southeast Asia, especially regarding player availability. Indonesia’s newly appointed head coach, John Herdman, has indicated a willingness to proceed with a squad largely composed of domestic players, acknowledging the difficulties of securing players based abroad during this period.
AFF Cup 2026: A New Timeline and Strategic Adjustments
Traditionally held at the close of the year, the AFF Cup’s move to mid-year introduces complexities related to the FIFA calendar. While there have been discussions about integrating the tournament into the official FIFA schedule, these plans have yet to materialize. This means players competing in leagues outside of Southeast Asia may face club commitments that prevent their participation.
Herdman understands the potential hurdles in calling up players from international clubs. He stated on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in Jakarta, that securing “tier 1-2” players during the July-August window will be challenging due to existing club obligations. This reality underscores the importance of cultivating a robust domestic talent pool.
I’ve found that a deep understanding of a nation’s local league is crucial for success in tournaments like the AFF Cup. Herdman’s focus on identifying and developing homegrown talent is a pragmatic approach, especially given the scheduling constraints. It allows for a more consistent and readily available squad.
The coach emphasized the need to thoroughly assess the depth of the Indonesian national team. ”It’s important for me to first understand the depth of the national team,” he added, signaling a period of evaluation and scouting within the domestic leagues.
This strategic shift will allow herdman to utilize the Piala AFF as a platform for evaluating players and building a cohesive squad. The composition of a locally-based team will provide a clear indication of the quality of domestic players and their potential for future international competition.
“This tournament schedule is perfect for me as a new coach, as I can learn how to utilize a large talent pool or give opportunities to other local players,” Herdman explained. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to building a lasting and competitive national team program
