Bangkok: BG Pathum United Football Club officially announced the appointment of Masatada Ishii as the club’s new head coach. The Japanese manager brings a wealth of experience from his time managing teams in the J.League, specifically with Kashima Antlers and Omiya Ardija.

According to Thai News Agency, Ishii made a significant impact with the “Iron Deer” team, securing the J.League YBC Levain Cup in the 2015 season, followed by triumphs in the J.League and Emperor’s Cup in 2016. He also led Kashima Antlers to a runner-up position in the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup.

In 2019, Ishii ventured into Thai football, starting with Samut Prakan City FC. He led the “Sea Fang” to a commendable 6th-place finish in the Thai League 1 table during his first season. Later, he transitioned to Buriram United in the second leg of the 2021/22 Thai League 1 season, guiding the “Thunder Castle” to win two top league titles, two Chang FA Cups, and two Revo Cups across the 2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons.

In 2023, Ishii assumed the role of head coach for the Thai national team in the 2023 Asian Cup finals in Qatar, advancing the “War Elephants” to the round of 16. His leadership extended to international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers, the 2024 ASEAN Football Championship, and the 50th and 51st King’s Cup tournaments, before his recent appointment as the head coach of BG Pathum United.