Uncertain Club Futures Cast Shadow Over Indonesia Ahead of FIFA Series 2026

Indonesia head coach John Herdman is facing early challenges ahead of his first matches in the FIFA Series 2026 scheduled for mid-March. Two overseas-based defenders, Elkan Baggott and Mees Hilgers, are dealing with uncertain club situations that could affect their form and readiness for international duty. The situation comes at a delicate moment as Herdman prepares to evaluate the existing squad before making major changes.

The new coach is expected to rely largely on players from the previous era for his first international window. With no immediate plans to introduce new naturalized players, the current group remains central to his short-term plans. As a result, the playing time and stability of Indonesian players in European clubs have become a key concern for the national team staff.

Elkan Baggott’s future has drawn particular attention after he struggled for regular minutes at Ipswich Town this season. The 23-year-old center-back faces heavy competition in defense, limiting his opportunities in league matches. Although he impressed during a loan spell at Blackpool and was recalled earlier than planned, he has only featured in a small number of cup matches and has occasionally been used outside his natural position.

Meanwhile, Mees Hilgers is dealing with a different type of uncertainty at FC Twente. Injuries and the absence of a contract extension have raised doubts about his long-term stay at the Dutch club. He has yet to appear in the second half of the 2025/2026 season, and with his contract set to expire in June 2026, Twente risks losing him without receiving a transfer fee.

Despite interest from larger clubs, both defenders still face questions about consistent playing time in the future. Their situations will be closely monitored by Herdman, who needs players in strong competitive condition as he begins building Indonesia’s squad for a busy international calendar in 2026.