He hasn't played in the A-League. Indonesia have called up this highly-rated NPL teen anyway

Mathew Baker could really go from NPL VIC to an international debut with Indonesia.

The Melbourne City teenager has earned a call-up to Indonesia's senior squad for upcoming friendlies against Oman and Mozambique, putting him on the verge of a remarkable milestone before he has even featured in the A-League Men competition.

Baker was born in Melbourne, but is eligible to represent Indonesia through his mother.

A star of Indonesia’s youth setup, the highly-rated 17-year-old’s rise is another reminder of how quickly football can move for talented young players.

If his name sounds familiar, it is because NPL Victoria followers have already had a glimpse of his potential this season.

The left-footed defender has been a regular for Melbourne City's senior academy side during their first-ever campaign in Victoria's top flight, making nine appearances and starting eight matches under head coach Stuart McDonald.

While many academy prospects are still finding their feet in senior football, Baker has looked increasingly comfortable competing against experienced opponents week after week.

Now those performances have been rewarded on the international stage.

The call-up comes after Baker captained Indonesia at the AFC Under-17 Asian Cup earlier this year and featured at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in 2025, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the country's most exciting young prospects.

His development has not gone unnoticed at club level either.

Last September, Baker became just the fifth player to progress through Melbourne City's entire Player Development Pathway after signing his first professional contract with the club.

At the time, Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo described him as an "exciting young talent", while Senior Academy Manager Simon Zappia said the club had no doubt he could make an impact at first-team level in the years ahead.

Those predictions are beginning to look increasingly accurate.

Indonesia's senior setup clearly sees something special in the teenager, selecting him despite his lack of senior professional appearances.

It is a significant vote of confidence and another example of how international football is increasingly looking beyond traditional benchmarks when identifying talent.

For Baker, the opportunity represents the latest step in a journey that has taken him from Melbourne City's academy ranks to NPL Victoria and now to the doorstep of senior international football.

His A-League debut will likely come. But if the next few weeks go to plan, his first taste of senior football on the biggest stage may arrive in Indonesian colours.