Coach Kiatisuk: 'To reach Asian level, Thailand must win ...'

Former Thailand national team head coach Kiatisuk Senamuang shared notable insights about the team under Coach Masatada Ishii.

On March 12, Kiatisuk Senamuang participated in a LIVE program on Thairath Sport channel, where the 23-player roster of the Thailand national team preparing to face Turkmenistan was announced in the decisive match for a ticket to the AFC Asian Cup 2027.

During the program, host Krekchai Khunto asked Coach Kiatisuk to share his views on the Thailand national team under Coach Masatada Ishii. However, at the Southeast Asian level, the Thai team still cannot achieve decisive victories with a large margin against regional opponents.

Kiatisuk confirmed that the goal of surpassing the ASEAN level is entirely feasible, but the team must also not underestimate regional opponents. He said: “Whether at the national team or club level, we all aim to advance to Asia. But in my opinion, the ASEAN region remains very important and should not be overlooked. We must secure victories against all opponents in the region.”

He also emphasized that if Thailand aims for larger stages like the World Cup, Olympics, or Asian Games, the team must prepare thoroughly starting now. Zico believes that every coach leading a national team wants to build the team in their own style.

Kiatisuk shared: “I believe whether it's Nishino, Ishii, or anyone, even a Thai coach, when taking charge of the national team, they want to develop players according to their own style. I myself did the same previously. We need reliable players on the field who can absorb tactics. Ishii or Nishino are similar; they want to create a team based on their own ideas.”

According to Kiatisuk, during the team-building process, differing opinions on using young players are normal in a coach's work. He said: “There will certainly be comments questioning why this player or that player is used. But that is natural in the coaching profession.”

Finally, the Thai football legend also stressed that any coach leading a national team must be ready to face pressure and criticism from public opinion. Kiatisuk concluded: “Everyone must accept criticism. I have had to do so as well. Any coach leading the Thailand national team needs to listen and accept critical opinions.”