Mitchell Baker Becomes an Additional Option for the Indonesian National Team's Attack Line.

The Indonesia National Team has secured fresh firepower for their attacking department. Young striker Mitchell Baker has officially been granted Indonesian citizenship, and is projected to reinforce the Garuda squad's frontline in preparations ahead of the 2026 Hyundai ASEAN Cup.

"With his solid physical frame and proven elite goalscoring instinct, Mitchell is an extremely valuable addition to our forward line," stated PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir in an official press statement released in Jakarta.

Mitchell formally received Indonesian citizen status after completing the citizenship oath ceremony at the Directorate General of General Legal Administration (AHU) office, Ministry of Law and Human Rights, Jakarta. The event was attended by Erick Thohir, alongside PSSI Executive Committee members and the Head of the National Teams Agency (BTN).

Mitchell's naturalization is part of PSSI's strategic initiative to strengthen the depth and overall quality of the Indonesia National Team squad. The arrival of this 19-year old player is expected to provide head coach John Herdman with much greater attacking options.

According to Erick, Indonesia National Team manager John Herdman has already drafted a dedicated integration plan for Baker to join the Garuda squad. He is earmarked as one of Indonesia's primary forward options for the 2026 Hyundai ASEAN Cup.

"Without a doubt coach John Herdman already has prepared plans to properly integrate Mitchell into the team setup," Erick confirmed.

For Mitchell himself, successfully obtaining Indonesian citizenship was a deeply emotional milestone. He stated he cannot wait to wear the Merah Putih national jersey and perform in front of Indonesia National Team supporters.

"I am truly overjoyed, I cannot wait to step onto the pitch and play for Indonesia," he remarked.

Mitchell Baker was born in Melbourne, Australia on 11 December 2006. He carries Indonesian bloodline through his mother Maureen Lee Baker, who has ancestral family roots originating from Yogyakarta and Semarang.

His football career began at Hong Kong Football Club when he was 10 years old. After three years of youth development there, Baker returned to Australia to continue his training with Northcote City and Melbourne Victory academy systems.

His career then progressed to the United States, where he joined Black Rock FC at the age of 15. Alongside pursuing his university education at Georgetown University, Baker continued honing his playing ability until he was selected by Colorado Rapids via the MLS SuperDraft in early 2026.

With his young age and proven development experience across multiple football ecosystems worldwide, Baker is widely regarded as a high-potential long term investment for the Indonesia National Team. His addition creates healthy internal competition in the attacking line, while also expanding the tactical options available for John Herdman.