Pattani FC president Assoc. Prof. Dr. Worawit Baroo has revealed the club’s ambitious plans for the future after guiding the southern Thai side to a historic promotion to the 2026/27 Thai League 1 season.
Speaking to Thairath Sport on May 24, Dr. Worawit shared his vision following Pattani’s dramatic promotion success against Nongbua Pitchaya FC.
Pattani secured their place in Thailand’s top flight after winning 5-4 on penalties, with the playoff ending 3-3 on aggregate across two legs.
With Thai League regulations allowing clubs to register 10 foreign players and field seven during matches, Dr. Worawit admitted the club is carefully planning its recruitment strategy ahead of next season.
“We are still discussing the best approach regarding the foreign player quota,” he explained.
“We are looking towards the southern region and making contact with clubs like Johor Darul Ta’zim and Selangor FC.”
The Pattani president also disclosed plans to explore international partnerships later this year, particularly in Türkiye and Saudi Arabia, with the possibility of bringing in loan players from overseas clubs.
“Towards the end of June, we hope to visit Turkey and Saudi Arabia. If there are players not being used by clubs there, perhaps they could loan them to us,” he said.
“We can provide accommodation, meals and full support facilities. We believe we have the capability to make it work, and this is one of the ideas we are considering.”
Despite the club’s rapid rise, Dr. Worawit stressed that Pattani FC would continue operating responsibly while building a competitive squad for Thai League 1.
“We started from nothing, without money or major funding, but step by step we have reached this point,” he said.
“We have discussed internally that the club will likely need around 55 million baht for the season. At the moment, we believe around 37 to 38 million baht per season has already been secured.”
“For the remaining amount, we may seek support from friends and supporters in Bangkok. We are not trying to become an extravagant club, but we will make sure player salaries are paid properly and on time.”
Dr. Worawit also highlighted Pattani’s growing reputation among foreign players as a key factor behind the club’s recruitment confidence.
“Foreign players want to come to Pattani because they talk positively about the club among themselves. That is very important for us,” he added.
“By the fifth, we expect all matters to be settled.”
Pattani FC’s remarkable rise has captured the attention of Thai football fans nationwide, with the club now preparing for the biggest chapter in its history as it gears up for life in the Thai top division.
Credit Photo :Pattani FC
