Pattani, Thai League newcomer, eyes talks with two Malaysian giants to bolster foreign players
Pattani FC, Thailand's newest top-division team for 2026/27, is negotiating with Malaysian clubs Johor Darul Ta'zim and Selangor FA to loan foreign players while operating on a modest 55-million-baht annual budget.
Pattani FC, the newest team in the Thai League for the 2026/27 season, is developing a strategy to build a strong squad that can sustain its position in the top division long-term, rather than being promoted only to be relegated after a year. Club president Assoc. Prof. Dr. Worawit Baru revealed that with the Thai League's foreign player quota of 10 registrations and a maximum of 7 on the pitch, the team is still exploring solutions despite limited financial resources. "We don't have the money or capital, but we're making it work," he said, explaining the team expects to spend around 55 million baht per season and has already secured 37-38 million baht, with the remainder possibly coming from Bangkok-based partners. The club promises transparent player salaries and has found that foreign players are eager to join Pattani, discussing opportunities among themselves—a crucial factor to finalize by the 5th. Pattani FC plans to negotiate MOUs to acquire players from Malaysian league clubs Johor Darul Ta'zim and Selangor FA through loan arrangements, leveraging the fact that Malaysian teams frequently hold preseason friendlies in Pattani and nearby provinces, making negotiations easier. For the 2026/27 season, the Thai League allows clubs to register 10 foreign players with a maximum of 7 on the field, and Pattani FC hopes to strengthen its team to compete effectively and survive in the T1 division as long as possible.
