Elkan Baggott Called Up to Indonesia National Team for FIFA Series 2026

Jakarta – Defender Elkan Baggott has been named to the Indonesia national team roster for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026, marking a significant comeback for the player under new head coach John Herdman. The call-up ends a period of over two years of absence from the squad for Baggott.

Confirmation of Baggott’s inclusion came from Sumardji, Chairman of the Indonesian National Team (BTN), who stated, “Yes, Elkan has been called up to the Indonesia national team,” regarding the selection for the FIFA Series.

While the PSSI (Football Association of Indonesia) has not yet released the full ‘Garuda Calling’ squad list for the FIFA Series, several players, including Baggott, have already received invitations to join the team. This marks a new chapter for the 21-year-old Ipswich Town player, who last represented Indonesia during a U-23 playoff match against Guinea in May 2024.

Baggott’s absence from the national team stemmed from a decision to prioritize personal commitments – a holiday – over participating in that crucial Olympic playoff match. Following that, both former national team coaches, Shin Tae-yong and Patrick Kluivert, opted not to include him in their squads. The situation created a notable gap in his international career, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering about his future with the national team.

The appointment of John Herdman as the new head coach in January 2026 appears to have opened the door for Baggott’s return. Herdman, tasked with revitalizing the Indonesian national team, has clearly identified Baggott as a valuable asset. This decision signals a potential shift in team dynamics and a willingness to consider players previously overlooked.

Indonesia will compete in the FIFA Series at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) in Jakarta, at the end of March. They are scheduled to face Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th, followed by a match against either Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands on March 30th. These matches represent a crucial opportunity for Herdman to assess his squad and build momentum ahead of future competitions.

For Baggott, this recall represents a chance to re-establish himself as a key player for the Indonesian national team. His return adds depth and experience to the defense, and his presence could be vital as Indonesia aims to improve its performance on the international stage. The defender’s form at Ipswich Town will undoubtedly be closely monitored by Herdman and the Indonesian coaching staff in the lead-up to the FIFA Series.

The upcoming matches will be closely watched by Indonesian football fans, eager to witness how Baggott integrates back into the team and how Herdman’s leadership shapes the national squad’s performance. The FIFA Series provides a valuable platform for Indonesia to test its capabilities against international opponents and prepare for future challenges in the world of football.

The return of Elkan Baggott to the Indonesian national team is a developing story, and further details regarding the full squad list and team preparations are expected to be released by the PSSI in the coming days. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments through official PSSI channels and reputable sports news outlets.

(mro/krs)