Former Indonesian U19 national team player is one step away from joining the Turkish club

KOMPAS.com – Former Indonesian U19 national team player, Muhammad Iqbal, is one step away from officially wearing the uniform of the Turkish club, Antalyaspor.

Currently, the player who once strengthened the Indonesian U19 national team under Indra Sjafri’s tutelage is currently undergoing a trial with Antalyaspor.

Iqbal is reported to have been in Turkey for the past two weeks.

The news was delivered by local Turkish media, Ajansspor and Antalyam.

According to the same source, Muhammad Iqbal is projected to be Antalyaspor’s long-term investment.

Also read: Schedule and Live Streaming Links for the Indonesian U19 National Team vs. North Macedonia Tonight

The transfer market in Turkey actually closed on October 5, 2020.

Therefore, if he passes the selection, Muhammad Iqbal can be recruited by Antalyaspor in the winter transfer market, January 2021.

The name Muhammad Iqbal may not often be heard in Indra Sjafri’s squad for the U-19 Indonesia national team.

This is because Muhammad Iqbal was injured so he had to be crossed out during the training camp (TC) of the Indonesian U-19 national team in preparation for the 2018 U-19 AFF Cup.

Iqbal suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and Meniscus tear so he had to go up the operating table.

Iqbal’s injury required a long recovery time, so he also missed the 2018 U-19 Asian Cup.

After recovering in mid-2019, Iqbal joined PSMS Medan and competed in League 2 2019.

Also read: Indonesia U19 National Team vs. North Macedonia, Shin Tae-yong: Ready for Rotation

In January 2020, Iqbal proved the strong desire for a career abroad by joining the second caste club of the Indian League, AU Rajasthan.

Now, the player in the midfielder position continues to rise after his injury and has conducted trials in Turkey.

Iqbal also uploaded a photo while he was doing a trial on Instagram on Saturday (10/10/2020).

Based on search BolaSport.com, Iqbal was in Turkey accompanied by Bayu Eka Sari (Bangbes) and agent Muly Munial.

A person named Turgut Pale with an Instagram account @ turgutputurge44 became Iqbal and his entourage’s shelter while in Turkey.

Turgut Pale uploaded a photo with Iqbal and wished the 20-year-old player the best results.

“My brother Muhammad Iqbal, welcome to visit me and Bang Bes. Thank you. Greetings to Indonesians.”

“Muhammad Iqbal is a future Indonesian player who will be the first (Indonesian player) in Turkey, God willing, I wish him the best,” he wrote.

Antalyaspor is a Turkish club based in the city of Antalya and was founded in 1966.

The pride of Antalyaspor’s costume is white and red.

The club which is headquartered in Antalya Arena has successfully won the Turkish Super League twice, namely in the 1981-1982 and 1985-1986 seasons.

The main squad of Antalyaspor is currently occupied by Lukas Podolksi and Nuri Sahin. (Bagas Reza Murti)