The Thai national team has officially announced the list of 25 players participating in ASEAN Cup 2026. It is noteworthy that many top stars of the "War Elephants" are not named, showing that this team is aiming for a rejuvenation process.
In the list announced by coach Anthony Hudson on July 8, experienced players such as Chanathip Songkrasin, Supachok Sarachat, Suphanat Mueanta or Elias Dolah are all absent.
Instead, the English strategist gave opportunities to many young players such as Yotsakorn Burapha, Theerasak Poeiphimai, Patrik Gustavsson and Jehanafi Mama. In midfield, Sarach Yooyen, Pokklao Anan and Picha Uthra are the most experienced names, while the defense still has the presence of Narubadin Weerawatnodom, Pansa Hemviboon and Manuel Bihr.
Notably, midfielder Seksan Ratree - captain of Thailand U23 at SEA Games 33 was also called up, continuing to show the direction of giving opportunities to the next generation.
The absence of many key players has raised questions from Thai media about the team's ambition at the ASEAN Cup 2026. Previously, coach Anthony Hudson had affirmed that the goal was to bring the "War Elephants" back to the Southeast Asian championship, and at the same time build a force towards the 2027 Asian Cup finals.
According to Thai media, the national team coaching staff had a plan to promote the rejuvenation process from before. Many young players are expected to accumulate more international competition experience through the ASEAN Cup 2026 to prepare for long-term goals.
However, not calling up many stars does not mean that Thailand underestimates the tournament. The current squad still possesses many experienced national team players and a significant depth of force compared to opponents in the region.
Compared to the teams that have won the ASEAN Cup in recent years, this is not the strongest force of the "War Elephants". However, with a quality player base and a combination of experience and youth, Thailand is still considered one of the candidates competing for the championship at the ASEAN Cup 2026.
List of Thailand national team for ASEAN Cup 2026
Goalkeeper: Chatchai Budprom, Kampol Pathomakkakul, Korkot Pipatnadda.
Defenders: Waris Chuthong, Narubadin Weerawatnodom, Pansa Hemviboon, Manuel Bihr, Nattapong Sairiya, Pichitchai Siakratok, Adisorn Promrak, Chaipol Adthana, Wanchai Jarunongkarn, Usema Thiangkham, Kakana Khamyok, Worachit Kanitsribampen.
Midfielders: Sarach Yooyen, Tossawat Limwanaset, Pokklao Anan, Picha Uthra, Seksan Ratree, Chawalwit Saeleow.
Forwards: Yotsakorn Burapha, Theerasak Poeiphimai, Patrik Gustavsson, Jehanafi Mama.
