As the ASEAN Championship kicks off on December 8th, all eyes are on Thailand as they embark on a historic quest for a third consecutive title. However, the War Elephants face a significant challenge: the absence of several key players who have been instrumental in their recent dominance. With the Thai League 1 season ongoing and the tournament falling outside of official FIFA international windows, clubs are not obligated to release their stars for national duty.
Missing Pieces in Thailand’s Puzzle
The most notable absence is that of captain Chanathip Songkrasin, widely regarded as Southeast Asia’s premier player over the past decade. The creative maestro, who recently returned to Thailand after a successful stint in Japan’s J1 League, has been denied release by his club BG Pathum United. Joining him on the sidelines are veteran striker Teerasil Dangda, whose 64 goals in 128 appearances make him Thailand’s all-time leading scorer, and Theerathon Bunmathan, the versatile left-back turned midfield general who claimed Most Valuable Player honors in the previous edition of the ASEAN Championship.
It’s a massive blow to be without players of their caliber and experience. Chanathip, Teerasil, and Theerathon have been the backbone of this Thai side for years. Their absence will undoubtedly be felt.
– A source close to the Thai national team
The list of missing stars doesn’t end there. Midfield stalwarts Sarach Yooyen and Sanrawat Dechmitr, along with forward Supachai Jaided, have also been omitted from the 26-man squad. Their absence further underscores the challenges facing head coach Mano Polking as he aims to steer Thailand to an unprecedented third straight ASEAN Championship title.
A New Generation Rises
While the missing veterans leave big shoes to fill, Thailand is not short on talent. Leading the charge are the Sarachat brothers, Supachok and Suphanat Mueanta. The former has become a regular starter for Consadole Sapporo in Japan’s top flight, while the latter recently returned to Buriram United after a spell in Belgium. At just 22, Suphanat already boasts an impressive 11 goals in 26 appearances for the senior national team.
Joining the Sarachats in Japan is rising star Ekanit Panya, who is honing his skills with Urawa Red Diamonds. The midfield will still feature experienced campaigners like Phitiwat Sukjitthammakul and Worachit Kanitsribampen, while Buriram United’s promising youngster Suphanat Supprada could be primed for a breakout tournament.
Questions in Defense
Thailand’s biggest concerns lie in defense, where a lack of international experience could be exposed. Apart from veteran leader Pansa Hemviboon, the other seven defenders in the squad have fewer than ten caps each. Between the posts, Kawin Thamsatchanan‘s surprise international retirement has left Kampol Pathomakkakul as the presumptive number one, despite having just 12 appearances to his name.
There are definitely some question marks at the back. Pansa will need to be a real leader and organize that young defense. Kampol has big gloves to fill with Kawin stepping away.
– A Thai football expert who requested anonymity
Opportunity in Adversity
While the absences are significant, they also present an opportunity for Thailand’s next generation to stand up and be counted. The ASEAN Championship has long been a proving ground for the region’s brightest prospects, and this edition will be no different. If the War Elephants’ young guns can rise to the occasion, they may not only keep Thailand’s historic three-peat hopes alive but also lay the foundation for continued success in the years to come.
Thailand kicks off their campaign against Indonesia on December 10th in a rematch of the 2022 final. While the Indonesians will be hungry for revenge, Thailand remains the team to beat until proven otherwise. Even without some of their biggest stars, the War Elephants have the talent and pedigree to compete for a record-extending sixth ASEAN Championship crown. Only time will tell if this new generation can write their own chapter in Thailand’s footballing history.
