Ahead of FIFA Series, Middle East Situation Feared to Disrupt Diaspora Players' Flights

Ahead of the FIFA Series 2026, concerns have emerged that the Middle East situation could affect flights for Indonesian National Team Diaspora Players. This concern was expressed by Executive Committee member of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), Arya Sinulingga. 

Arya stated that international flight conditions, particularly routes from Europe and the Middle East, remain uncertain. Therefore, he added, PSSI must seek optimal travel arrangements for the players.

According to Arya, the federation hasn't even finalized flight ticket purchases for Europe-based players. This is because PSSI is still monitoring international developments and considering alternative travel routes.

"We currently don't know how or which route to take. Whether via the United States or not, we also don't know yet. Later we'll assess the urgency and how the coach can determine steps. We'll find the best solution," Arya said on Friday.

The Indonesian national team is scheduled to compete in the FIFA Series tournament in late March. The Garuda Squad will face St Kitts and Nevis on March 27. 

The winner of that match will then face the winner of the Bulgaria vs Solomon Islands duel on March 30.

Besides flight issues, Arya also highlighted the team's potentially limited preparation time due to overlap with Eid al-Fitr. 

Most players can only join after domestic competitions conclude, while they also wish to celebrate the holiday with family.

"The domestic league (Super) ends mid-month, so most should be available. But it's tight with Eid. Surely our players want to go home for Eid. This gives the coach very little time to gather them," he said.

Indonesian National Team Coach John Herdman is reportedly still determining the best time to assemble the squad for pre-tournament training camp.

"He (John Herdman) is also considering Eid. We'll see later. There will be measures," stated Arya.

Arya also addressed the situation of Indonesian National Team Defender Elkan Baggott, who was previously absent from the squad. He clarified that the decision came from the player himself, who chose to focus on his club, Ipswich Town, rather than from the coach.

"Elkan Baggott? Actually it wasn't the coach's decision at that time, but the player's. He prioritized his club then. So for now, it depends on needs," he explained.

Arya emphasized that national team call-ups will always be adjusted to the coach's requirements and squad conditions before international fixtures.

"What's Elkan's position? Many options? Later there will be multiple choices," he concluded.