Jakarta, Indonesia – As the Indonesian national team prepares for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026, a surprising tactical shift may be in the works. Head coach John Herdman is considering deploying Persija Jakarta’s Jordi Amat in a midfield role, a move that has the player himself prepared to embrace a novel challenge. The development comes as Indonesia gears up to host Saint Kitts and Nevis, Bulgaria, or the Solomon Islands at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta from March 27th to 30th.
Amat, traditionally a central defender, was included in Herdman’s preliminary 41-man squad for the FIFA Series, but notably listed among the midfielders. This sparked immediate discussion, and the player has now confirmed that the possibility of playing in a different position was discussed directly with the national team manager.
“I also spoke with the coach (John Herdman), and he also likes the way I play in midfield,” Amat said after a recent match with Dewa United, as reported by multiple Indonesian news outlets. “So, let’s see. Let’s see what he wants.”
This potential positional change comes as Indonesia looks to bolster its midfield options. Although Amat’s primary strength lies in defense, his experience and technical ability have led Herdman to explore his versatility. Amat has, in fact, featured in midfield for Persija Jakarta on several occasions, demonstrating his adaptability to the role. He’s shown an ability to contribute both defensively and offensively from a deeper position, a quality that could prove valuable for the national team.
The move is particularly captivating given the current landscape of the Indonesian national team. The squad boasts a number of established midfielders, including Marc Klok of Persib Bandung, Ivar Jenner, Ricky Kambuaya of Dewa United Banten FC, and the promising young talent Arkhan Fikri of Arema FC. Amat’s inclusion in this group suggests Herdman is looking for a different dynamic, potentially a more experienced and physically imposing presence in the center of the park.
Amat himself appears unfazed by the prospect of playing in a new role. The 33-year-classic expressed his readiness to contribute wherever needed, emphasizing his commitment to the national team. “I am always ready to help as a center-back, as a midfielder,” he stated. This willingness to adapt and contribute to the team’s success is a testament to his professionalism and dedication.
The fact that Persija Jakarta is the most represented club in the preliminary squad – with six players called up, including Mauro Zijlstra, Witan Sulaeman, Rizky Ridho, Dony Tri Pamungkas, and Fajar Fathurrahman – highlights the club’s strong contribution to the national team pool. Amat expressed pride in this achievement, recognizing it as a reflection of the quality and mental fortitude within the Persija squad.
Herdman’s willingness to experiment with Amat’s positioning suggests a proactive approach to team selection and a desire to maximize the potential of his squad. The coach has clearly identified Amat’s versatility as an asset and is keen to explore how it can be utilized to benefit the team. This tactical flexibility could prove crucial as Indonesia navigates the challenges of the FIFA Series and looks to build momentum for future competitions.
The upcoming matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis, Bulgaria, or the Solomon Islands will provide a valuable opportunity for Herdman to assess Amat’s suitability for the midfield role. It will be interesting to see how the player adapts to the demands of the position and whether he can seamlessly integrate into the team’s tactical setup. The matches will also serve as a crucial platform for Indonesia to showcase its talent and build confidence ahead of future international commitments.
For Amat, this is a chance to further cement his place in the national team and demonstrate his value beyond his traditional defensive duties. His adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges are qualities that will undoubtedly be appreciated by Herdman and the Indonesian fans alike. The coming weeks promise to be an exciting period for Indonesian football, with the potential for a tactical surprise that could unlock new possibilities for the national team.
The Indonesian national team will be looking to capitalize on home advantage during the FIFA Series, aiming to deliver strong performances and build a positive momentum. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, and a coach willing to explore innovative tactical approaches, Indonesia is well-positioned to create a mark on the international stage.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Indonesian national team is the FIFA Series 2026, kicking off on March 27th at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and developments through official PSSI channels and reputable sports news outlets.
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