Following their disappointing loss to Vietnam at the AFF Cup 2024, Thai football has taken significant steps to improve its standing on the international stage. Notably, the appointment of Japanese coaches for all three national teams—senior, U23, and women’s—demonstrates the Football Association of Thailand’s (FAT) long-term vision.
A New Direction for Thai Football
Thailand is adopting a Japanese-style football development model, one of Asia’s leading football powerhouses. This is evident in the reappointment of head coach Masatada Ishii to lead the national team. Despite the setback at AFF Cup 2024, he retains FAT’s confidence with bigger goals: excelling at the 2027 Asian Cup and securing a spot in the 2030 World Cup.
According to FAT, Coach Ishii has introduced several positive changes, from player selection to tactical implementation. The “War Elephants” now employ high pressing and off-the-ball movement—a hallmark of Japanese football. His systematic training methods and ability to inspire players have also been acknowledged by fans.
Youth Development Strategy
The focus isn’t limited to the senior team; FAT is also prioritizing youth development. Takayuki Nishigaya has been appointed to lead Thailand’s U23 squad. His primary mission is to create synergy between the U23 and senior teams while securing a spot in the 2028 Olympics.
The decision to hire a Japanese coach for the U23 team reinforces a consistent “Japanese flow” across Thailand’s football system. This ensures tactical coherence and helps young players adapt to modern playing styles early on.
Investment in Women’s Football
Thailand’s women’s team is also part of this comprehensive development plan. Ikeda Futoshi, who previously coached Japan’s women’s team from 2021 to 2024, has been tasked with elevating Thailand’s women’s football. The specific goal is to qualify for the 2027 World Cup.
With extensive experience and deep knowledge of women’s football, Coach Ikeda Futoshi is expected to enhance the team’s competitiveness and challenge strong opponents regionally and continentally.
Conclusion
Thailand’s bold moves following their AFF Cup 2024 disappointment highlight FAT’s determination to build a professional and sustainable football ecosystem. Adopting the Japanese model across the senior, U23, and women’s teams reflects strategic foresight and underscores the ambition to elevate the “War Elephants” to new heights. Let’s wait and see if these efforts will yield the desired success.
Source:
Dantri.com.vn
