Tanaboon becomes Thailand’s most expensive player
VERSATILE DEFENDER Tanaboon Kesarat yesterday credited his discipline on and off the pitch with helping him to become the Thai League’s most expensive player, after he completed a record-breaking move from four-time champions Muangthong United to league rivals Chiangrai United.
Chiangrai, who finished seventh in Thai top-flight last month, pulled off a major coup by snapping up the 23-year-old Tanaboon from 2016 champions Muangthong for a reported fee of Bt50 million, a new domestic transfer record.
The northern club unveiled its marquee signing along with six other new players at a press conference yesterday, where they also outlined their strategy for next season. Tanaboon, who has joined Chiangrai on a five-year contract, said he hoped to play a part in helping his new employers achieve their target of qualifying for the Asian Champions League (ACL).
“I’m happy to join Chiangrai because they value me. It’s a pity to miss the chance of playing in the ACL [with Muangthong] next year, but I’m convinced Chiangrai will realise my dream [of playing in the ACL].
“I admit I’m an ambitious guy – I want to pursue success after success. My ultimate dream is to play overseas in Japan, South Korea or Europe. I want to prove myself by becoming even better,” said Tanaboon, whose transfer fee eclipsed the Bt30 million Muangthong paid Buriram Untied for left-back Theerathon Bunmathan earlier this year.
Tanaboon, a versatile defender who can also play in defensive midfield, said he could thrive under the pressure his hefty price tag brought.
“Right now I feel the pressure of being the most expensive player. Fans will expect more from me. But I’ll give it everything to produce performances to justify my salary,” said the player, who will reportedly be paid a hefty Bt700,000 per month.
Tanaboon also suggested his eyebrow-raising transfer fee was down to his devotion to the game over his whole career. “I stay disciplined on and off the pitch. I’ve not had many chances to hang out like others my age as I give priority to looking after myself. We don’t have a long career in football. I’m now in a good moment so I’ve opted to sacrifice entertainments for my career.”
