Denny Landzaat Turns Down Ajax Offer to Focus on Indonesia National Team

6 hours ago 1

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Denny Landzaat is reportedly being targeted by Eredivisie giant Ajax Amsterdam, but he remains committed to his role as assistant coach of the Indonesian national team.

Ajax holds a special place in Landzaat’s career, yet he made his stance clear. “But my focus is clear. I am fully committed to the Indonesia national team, to the journey we have started, and to the legacy we are building,” he said in a Status Pro Sport release.

According to Football Transfer, Ajax is considering Landzaat as an assistant to head coach John Heitinga. Despite the approach, the former Dutch international, who joined the Indonesian team in early 2025, has no plans to leave. “I feel I am in a good place with the Indonesia national team, both professionally and personally,” he said.

The 49-year-old began his professional career at Ajax, where he once played in the junior squad before signing his first senior contract in the 1995-1996 season.

Now, his priority is helping Indonesia qualify for the 2026 World Cup alongside head coach Patrick Kluivert.

“This is something that truly inspires me. I believe in this project, I believe in the players, and I want to make history with Indonesia,” said Landzaat, who featured for the Netherlands in the 2006 World Cup.

Landzaat, Kluivert, and assistant Alex Pastoor are currently preparing the national team for the fourth round of World Cup qualifiers, scheduled from October 8 to 14, 2025. The matches will take place in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Six teams will compete in two groups for two qualification spots. Besides Indonesia, the contenders include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. The group draw is set for July 17, 2025.

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