Suche
Mein Konto
Thai Football Association surprisingly parts ways with coach Ishii
Thailand sacks coach Masatada Ishii after 30 games. The football association is planning a reorientation to improve performance.
Thai Football Association surprisingly parts ways with coach Ishii
A surprising turn of events in the world of Thai football: The Thai Football Association, also known as Football Association of Thailand (FAT), has fired coach Masatada Ishii. This decision came after a comprehensive assessment of his leadership style and tactical direction, which no longer appeared to be in line with the vision for the long-term development of football in Thailand.
The chairman of the decision-making body, FAT Vice President Chanwit Phonchiwin, chaired the meeting in which the separation was decided. Despite positively appreciating Ishii's commitment and attempting to establish a disciplined style of play, the FAT concluded that different philosophies in team leadership led to this decision. In charge since December 2025, Ishii led the Thai team in 30 games, of which they won 16 - a remarkable win rate of 53%.
A new chapter for Thai football
The FAT plans to reform the structures in the association in order to raise the level of Thai football. In this context, a successor for Ishii is urgently sought. The new coach will be announced before the FIFA days in November. Thailand will face Singapore and Sri Lanka in 2027 Asian Cup qualifying, two crucial encounters that could set the stage for challenges to come.
The association, which was founded on April 25, 1916 and joined FIFA on June 23, 1925, is one of the oldest organizations in Asia. In addition to the various national leagues organized by the FAT, including the Thailand Premier League and Thailand Division 1, the focus is now on professionalizing football in Thailand. Not least through programs such as “Vision Asia” and FIFA’s “Goal Project”, which aim to improve structures.
Football in Thailand: A look back
After the first football match in 1897, football in Thailand experienced rapid development, which led to the founding of the FAT. The first championship title in the men's league was awarded in 1916. Today, numerous national teams, including men's and women's teams as well as various youth teams, are organized under the FAT umbrella. The women's team recently achieved success in the Thai Women's League.
Many fans are eagerly awaiting the next era of Thai football as FAT continues to work towards a stronger and more professional league and national team. The memories of recent successes, such as winning the 2021 ASEAN Football Championship, are strong and give hope for a positive sporting future.
Given current developments, it is to be hoped that the FAT will take the right steps to fulfill its long-standing desire for international success, including the first participation in a World Cup, which has not yet been achieved. Eyes now turn to the coming days when the new coach for the Thai team will be announced and further measures will be taken to promote football in Thailand.