Jakarta – The Indonesian national team is generating significant buzz as the FIFA Series 2026 approaches, with players plying their trade across Europe attracting attention from media outlets worldwide. From the burgeoning careers of Jay Idzes and Emil Audero in Italy, to Maarten Paes’s recent success with Ajax Amsterdam and the welcomed return of Elkan Baggott, the Garuda squad is firmly on the international football map.
The growing presence of Indonesian talent in prominent European leagues is a relatively recent development, and one that’s not going unnoticed. For years, the national team relied heavily on domestically-based players. Now, with a wave of players gaining experience in competitive environments like Serie A and the Eredivisie, the team’s profile – and potential – is rising.
Idzes and Audero Impress in Italy
The performances of Jay Idzes and Emil Audero in Serie A have begun to turn heads in Italy. Tuttomercatoweb, an Italian sports news outlet, recently highlighted both players as being included in John Herdman’s 41-man preliminary squad for the upcoming FIFA Series matches in Jakarta. The report noted the increasing interest in the Indonesian national team due to the presence of players competing at a high level in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Idzes, who plays for Sassuolo, and Audero, with Cremonese, represent a new era for Indonesian football. Their inclusion in Serie A squads provides valuable exposure and a platform to showcase their skills against some of the world’s best players. This increased visibility is crucial for attracting further investment and talent development within Indonesia.
Paes Earns First Victory with Ajax, Captivates American Media
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Maarten Paes is making a strong impression in the Netherlands. He recently secured his first victory with Ajax Amsterdam, contributing to a dominant 4-0 win over Sparta Rotterdam in the Eredivisie. Paes also recorded a clean sheet in the match, further solidifying his position as a key player for the Dutch giants.
Paes’s journey to becoming a first-team player at Ajax hasn’t been without its challenges. Ajax coach Oscar Garcia acknowledged that Paes is still adapting to the team’s build-up play from the back, stating, “He (Maarten Paes) is still quite new and doesn’t have much experience at Ajax. But that’s an area we’re working on.” Garcia also emphasized the need for the team to improve its overall attacking movements, highlighting the ongoing development process.
The American media has taken note of Paes’s progress, with reports focusing on his adaptation to Dutch football and his potential to develop into a cornerstone of the Indonesian national team. The attention underscores the growing global interest in Indonesian players and their impact on European leagues.
Baggott Returns to the National Team Fold
Adding to the positive momentum, defender Elkan Baggott has been recalled to the Indonesian national team. The Ipswich Town player was named in Herdman’s 41-man squad, marking his return after a period of absence. Baggott last represented Indonesia during the 2023 Asian Cup, facing Australia in the round of 16.
According to Sumardji, Chairman of the Indonesian National Team (BTN), Baggott’s inclusion was a straightforward decision based on the coach’s needs. “John Herdman has called up the names as we conveyed, one of them being Elkan Baggott. The call-up letter has been sent and he is willing to come. That means the coach indeed needs his services,” Sumardji explained.
Baggott’s return is seen as a significant boost to the squad, providing valuable defensive depth and experience. His presence adds another dimension to the team’s options and strengthens their chances of success in the FIFA Series 2026.
What This Means for Indonesia
The simultaneous success of these players – Idzes and Audero in Italy, Paes in the Netherlands, and Baggott’s return to the national team – represents a watershed moment for Indonesian football. It signals a shift towards a more professional and globally-minded approach to player development and team building.
The increased exposure in Europe not only elevates the profile of Indonesian football but also provides valuable learning opportunities for these players. Competing at a higher level week in and week out will undoubtedly enhance their skills and prepare them for international competition.
Herdman’s squad selection, featuring 41 players, demonstrates a commitment to broadening the player pool and providing opportunities for new talent. The inclusion of players like Fajar Fathurrahman, Tim Geypens, and Jens Raven alongside experienced veterans like Baggott suggests a blend of youth and experience that could prove crucial in the FIFA Series.
It’s important to note that the 41-man squad will be trimmed to 23 players for each match in the FIFA Series, creating a competitive environment within the training camp. Herdman will have the opportunity to assess each player’s form and suitability for the team’s tactical approach.
Indonesia is scheduled to face Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th, with the winner advancing to play either the Solomon Islands or Bulgaria. The FIFA Series presents a valuable opportunity for the national team to test its mettle against international opposition and build momentum ahead of future qualifying campaigns.
The resurgence of Indonesian football is a story worth watching. With a growing number of players making their mark in Europe and a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the national team, the future looks bright for the Garuda.
Next Up: The Indonesian national team will begin training camp at the Bali United Training Center in Gianyar, Bali, in preparation for the FIFA Series 2026 matches. Keep an eye on Archysport for further updates on squad selections and match previews.
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