The ASEAN page praises Bangkok United for using a "Thai coach and Thai players" to successfully lead the team to the ACL Two semifinals.
On 10 April 2026, in an era when most Thai football clubs rely heavily on foreign players, Bangkok United chose a different path and has proven to the football world that "Thai players' skills" can compete on the Asian stage.
- Proud! Using the most local players in the tournament
In the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26, Bangkok United fielded an average of 9.54 local players per game, accounting for 59.63% of all players—significantly higher than many competitors—and successfully advanced to the semifinals.
Compared to other teams at the same stage, the contrast is clear.
Bangkok United used 59.63% local players, averaging 9.54 per game, reaching the semifinals (still in contention).
Cong An Hanoi used 60.58% local players, averaging 9.7 per game, reaching the last 16 (eliminated).
Tampines Rovers used 51.26% local players, averaging 8.2 per game, reaching the quarterfinals (eliminated).
BG Pathum United used 55.67% local players, averaging 9 per game, eliminated in the group stage.
Ratchaburi FC used 43.27% local players, averaging 9.2 per game, reaching the quarterfinals (eliminated).
Persib Bandung used 42.97% local players, averaging 6.88 per game, reaching the last 16 (eliminated).
- Thai coach commands, Thai players fight
Even more prideful than the on-field results is the club’s philosophy of steadfastly employing a Thai coach and relying on local players as the core. At a time when many clubs invest heavily in foreign squads, Bangkok United has proven that developing homegrown talent, investing in Thai players, and trusting coaches of the same nationality is a sustainable and greater path.
- A proof that all ASEAN must remember
Bangkok United’s progress to the ACL Two semifinals with an all-Thai formula is not just a success for one club but a proof to the entire Thai football community that Thai youth, Thai coaches, and Thailand’s development system can proudly stand on the Asian stage.