Jakarta – John Herdman has announced his initial squad list, the “Garuda Calling,” as he prepares the Indonesian national team for the upcoming FIFA Series matches. While the roster features many familiar faces, several selections have raised eyebrows among supporters and analysts alike. The 41-player list is preliminary, with Herdman set to trim it down to 23 for the match against Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th.
The upcoming FIFA Series represents a crucial first test for Herdman in his new role as Indonesia’s head coach, as PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir emphasized the importance of evaluating the team’s strength against diverse opposition. The tournament, hosted in Jakarta from March 27-30, 2026, will feature Indonesia alongside Bulgaria (UEFA), the Solomon Islands (OFC), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF). This provides a valuable opportunity to assess the squad’s adaptability and tactical flexibility against different playing styles.
Surprise Inclusions in Herdman’s Initial Squad
While the majority of the called-up players are seasoned veterans, a handful of selections have sparked debate. Here’s a closer look at some of the more unexpected names on Herdman’s list:
1. Jens Raven
The inclusion of 20-year-old forward Jens Raven has been met with some surprise, given his relatively limited impact for Bali United. Raven has made 17 appearances in the Super League, but has only started once. His contribution to Bali United’s attack has been modest, with just one goal and two assists to his name. It remains to be seen how Herdman intends to utilize Raven within the national team setup.
2. Muhammad Ferarri
Defender Muhammad Ferarri’s selection is also raising questions, as he hasn’t been a regular starter for Bhayangkara FC. In fact, Ferarri hasn’t even been included in the matchday squad for Bhayangkara FC’s last six Super League games. The former Persija Jakarta player has made 12 appearances in the Super League, starting seven of those matches. His lack of recent playing time makes his inclusion a notable one.
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Fajar Fathurrahman received his first call-up to the Indonesian senior national team. Photo: Special (via Borneo FC website)
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3. Witan Sulaeman
Witan Sulaeman’s return to the national team setup is a surprise to some, having not featured for Indonesia since the era of Shin Tae-yong. He has struggled to secure a consistent starting role with Persija Jakarta, facing competition from Brazilian forwards. This season, Witan has made 15 appearances in the Super League, contributing one goal and three assists.
4. Victor Dethan
Victor Dethan offers another option in the attacking line for Indonesia. While he hasn’t always been a guaranteed starter for PSM Makassar, he has featured in 19 matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist. Dethan will compete with players like Hokky Caraka, Egy Maulana Vikri, and Adrian Wibowo for a spot on the right wing.
5. Fajar Fathurrahman
Muhammad Fajar Fathurrahman has been performing well for Borneo FC, making 21 appearances according to Transfermarkt. He presents an option at right-back, a position where Indonesia already has established players like Kevin Diks, Yakob Sayuri, and Sandy Walsh.
6. Mauro Zijlstra
Mauro Zijlstra has yet to make a significant impact at Persija, struggling to break into the starting lineup due to the impressive form of Gustavo Almeida and Maxwell. He has yet to register any goals or assists in two Super League appearances and is reportedly dealing with a groin injury.
7. Elkan Baggott
The return of Elkan Baggott to the Garuda Calling is noteworthy, as he hasn’t represented the national team since early 2024. Baggott previously declined a call-up to the U-23 team for the Olympic play-offs and, during Patrick Kluivert’s tenure, prioritized securing his position at Ipswich Town over national team duty.
8. Cahya Supriadi
Cahya Supriadi has been a standout performer for PSIM Yogyakarta, making 22 appearances for Laskar Mataram. His inclusion is perhaps the biggest surprise, as Herdman opted for Supriadi over Teja Pakualam, who has been in excellent form for Persib Bandung.
Herdman’s selections suggest a willingness to cast a wide net and evaluate a diverse range of players as he begins to build his vision for the Indonesian national team. The upcoming FIFA Series will be a crucial opportunity to assess these players and determine who will form the core of the squad moving forward.
Indonesia is scheduled to face Saint Kitts and Nevis in their opening match on March 27th at 8:00 p.m. Western Indonesian Time. According to PSSI Chairperson Erick Thohir, Saint Kitts and Nevis’ playing style is heavily influenced by British football and relies on counterattacks. A win would see Indonesia face the winner of the Bulgaria vs. Solomon Islands match in the final on March 30th, while the losing team will compete in a third-place play-off.
The FIFA Series is seen as a strategic platform for rebuilding the team and increasing Indonesia’s competitiveness on the international stage. Herdman will be looking to use this tournament to lay the foundation for a successful new era for Indonesian football.
Next Up: The Indonesian national team will begin preparations for the FIFA Series, with Herdman expected to announce the final 23-man squad in the coming days. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates and analysis.
What do you think of Herdman’s squad selections? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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