Elkan Baggott’s Return to Indonesia’s National Team After Shin Tae Yong’s Departure?

Following the dismissal of coach Shin Tae Yong, the possibility of Elkan Baggott rejoining Indonesia's national football team has opened up. Baggott, who had been a key figure under Shin's leadership, was a central part of the squad during the preparations for the postponed 2023 U-20 World Cup in Indonesia.



Under Shin Tae Yong, Baggott also earned a spot in the historic friendly match against Argentina at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on June 19, 2023. He started the match alongside Jordi Amat and Rizky Ridho in defense, although Indonesia lost 2-0 to Argentina.

However, after opting not to join the squad for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifying playoffs in May, Baggott found himself sidelined by Shin, who was known for his strict disciplinary approach. The South Korean coach was firm in his decisions and didn’t hesitate to exclude players who did not adhere to his rules.

When asked about Baggott’s absence from the squad, Shin remained tight-lipped, suggesting that Elkan himself should address the issue directly.

With Shin's contract officially terminated by the PSSI on January 6, the door is now open for a new coach to take charge. PSSI President Erick Thohir has announced that the new head coach will be revealed on January 12. This change could offer Baggott another chance to return to the national team, although he will face stiff competition from more experienced defenders.

Currently, Indonesia boasts a solid pool of defenders, including Jay Idzes (Venezia), Mees Hilgers (Twente), Jordi Amat (Johor Darul Ta'zim), Justin Hubner (Wolverhampton), and Rizky Ridho (Persija Jakarta), making Baggott’s path back into the squad more challenging.