Thai media reported that Ekanit Panya has asked to withdraw from the “War Elephants” squad for the 2023 Asian Cup, to join the host club Urawa Red Diamonds to prepare for the new season. Thailand head coach, Masatada Ishii, had to call midfielder Picha Autra to replace him.

Siam Sport revealed that Ekanit wants to have the best preparation for the new season in Japanese football, after Urawa Red Diamonds appointed new coach Per-Mathias Hogmo.

Today, January 7, the Thai national team had its first training day to prepare for the 2023 Asian Cup finals. The War Elephants’ first training session lasted about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with the participation of 17 players. By tomorrow, January 8, the Thai national team will have a full complement of 26 players.

Regarding the preparation of the Thai national team for the 2023 Asian Cup finals, coach Masatada Ishii said: “The absence of Chanathip Songkrasin and Teerasil Dangda due to injury is unfortunate. But it also creates opportunities for other players. We I’m about to have a practice match with U23 Thailand. This is an opportunity for the Thai players to test their physical fitness and apply the tactics the team is building.

The goal of the Thai national team is to pass the group stage of the 2023 Asian Cup finals, then advance as deeply as possible.”