Thailand has become a rising force in Asian football, producing world-class talents who shine both domestically and internationally. In 2025, Thai players continue to break records, lead teams to victory, and inspire the next generation. Here’s a look at the 10 best Thai professional soccer players making waves this year.
1. Supachai Chaided
Position: Forward
Club: Buriram United
Supachai Chaided dominates Thai football as the top scorer in the 2024–25 Thai League 1 season, netting 20 goals for Buriram United. Standing at 1.88 meters, he combines physical strength with precise finishing, earning back-to-back “Thai League Top Scorer” titles. Born in Pattani, a Muslim-majority region in southern Thailand, Supachai’s journey from local tournaments to international fame reflects his relentless work ethic. In January 2024, he scored twice against Kyrgyzstan in the AFC Asian Cup, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Off the field, Supachai’s humility and dedication to community projects have made him a fan favorite.
2. Chanathip Songkrasin
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: BG Pathum United
Known as the “Asian Messi” for his dribbling skills and creativity, Chanathip Songkrasin has redefined Thai midfield play. After successful stints in Japan’s J-League with Consadole Sapporo and Kawasaki Frontale, he returned to Thailand in 2023 to lead BG Pathum United. Chanathip captained Thailand to victory in the 2024 King’s Cup, scoring a dramatic 91st-minute winner against Syria. His leadership and technical brilliance have earned him three “ASEAN Championship MVP” awards, a record no other player holds.
3. Teerasil Dangda
Position: Striker
Club: BG Pathum United
At 36, Teerasil Dangda remains one of Southeast Asia’s most lethal strikers. With 64 goals in 128 appearances for Thailand, he’s the third-highest scorer in the nation’s history. In 2024, he became the first Thai player to score in the ASEAN Club Championship, adding to his legacy. Teerasil’s career includes a rare European adventure with Spain’s Almería in 2014–15, where he scored in the Copa del Rey. His consistency and aerial prowess make him indispensable for both club and country.
4. Suphanat Mueanta
Position: Forward
Club: Buriram United
Dubbed the “Thai Mbappé,” 22-year-old Suphanat Mueanta is a rising star with explosive speed and clinical finishing. He scored 15 goals for Thailand’s senior team by age 21 and played a key role in Buriram United’s 2023–24 league title. In 2024, he became the youngest Thai player to score in the AFC Champions League, signaling his readiness for global recognition.
5. Teerasak Poeiphimai
Position: Forward
Club: Port FC
Teerasak Poeiphimai ranks among Thailand’s top scorers with 19 goals in the 2024–25 season. His agility and ability to exploit defensive gaps have turned Port FC into title contenders. A standout moment came in December 2024, when his hat-trick against Bangkok United secured a crucial 3–2 win.
6. Theerathon Bunmathan
Position: Left-Back
Club: Bangkok United
Theerathon holds the record for most appearances by a Thai defender (518 club games). His pinpoint crosses and defensive discipline earned him a move to Japan’s Yokohama F. Marinos in 2021 before returning to Thailand. In 2024, he became the first Thai player to win the ASEAN Club Championship with Bangkok United.
7. Patiwat Khammai
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Bangkok United
Patiwat Khammai is Thailand’s top goalkeeper, keeping 15 clean sheets in the 2024–25 season. His reflexes and command of the penalty area helped Bangkok United finish second in the league. During Thailand’s 2024 Asian Cup campaign, he saved a critical penalty against Uzbekistan, proving his big-match temperament.
8. Ekanit Panya
Position: Midfielder
Club: Ehime FC (Japan)
Ekanit Panya excels in Japan’s J2 League with Ehime FC, where his vision and passing accuracy stand out. He scored the winning goal in Thailand’s 2023 SEA Games final against Vietnam, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
9. Kawin Thamsatchanan
Position: Goalkeeper
Club: Muangthong United
A veteran with 74 international caps, Kawin Thamsatchanan is known for his acrobatic saves. He won the “J-League Best Goalkeeper” award in 2022 during a loan spell with Cerezo Osaka. In 2024, he became the first Thai goalkeeper to reach 200 clean sheets in club football.
10. Sarach Yooyen
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Club: BG Pathum United
Sarach Yooyen’s tactical intelligence and tackling make him Thailand’s midfield anchor. With 398 club appearances, he’s a reliable presence in both domestic and continental competitions. His leadership was instrumental in BG Pathum United’s 2024 AFC Champions League qualification.
Conclusion
From goal-scoring machines like Supachai Chaided to defensive stalwarts like Theerathon Bunmathan, Thai players are redefining football in Asia. Their blend of skill, determination, and sportsmanship ensures Thailand remains a powerhouse in regional competitions. As young talents like Suphanat Mueanta rise, the future of Thai football shines brighter than ever.