Polemic Of Elkan Baggott And The Indonesian National Team, Chairman Of PSSI Speaks Up

JAKARTA - The General Chairperson (Ketum) of PSSI, Erick Thohir, spoke up regarding the polemic that occurred between Elkan Baggott and the Indonesian national team. This is related to Baggot's attitude which was rumored not to be serious about fulfilling the call to defend the Garuda Squad.

Elkan Baggott was previously known to be on the list of players called Shin Tae-yong for the 2024 Paris Olympics playoffs against Guinea on 9 May 2024.

However, Elkan was not present at the training camp (TC) schedule and was even said to have not responded.

Regarding that, Erick Thohir actually hopes that players can be serious in responding to the call of the Indonesian national team. If they are not willing to fulfill the call, the Indonesian national team will not force and will continue to attract other outstanding players to make achievements.

"We also don't want to force it, but the Indonesian national team will continue without anyone (the player who refuses). Yes, if you don't want to play, yes, we are looking for other players who want to defend red and white," said Erick Thohir.

"I also hope that players must be serious, for all, yes, not just for Elkan, for all players who are half-hearted in strengthening the Indonesian national team," said Erick.

Reflecting on Baggott's attitude which ultimately did not fulfill the call of the Indonesian national team when preparing for the playoffs, the player was then not included by Shin Tae-yong on the following agenda.

Including the test match against Tanzania and two 2026 World Cup Qualification matches on June 6 and 11, 2024 at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta.

While leading the first training session of the Indonesian national team ahead of the opponents of Tanzania, Shin Tae-yong, who was asked about Elkan Baggot, did not comment much.

"Elkan's problem might immediately ask Elkan. Elkan is the one who knows better," said the coach.

Elkan Baggott has also removed the name PSSI on his Instagram. This attitude then led to further speculation regarding Baggott's relationship with PSSI.