AFF Cup most valuable player, Chanathip Songkrasin and Swiss-born Charyl Chappuis have set their sights on playing abroad following Thailand’s success in the competition.
The 21-year-old Chanathip and Charyl scored a goal each after Malaysia led 3-0 in the final, return leg at National Stadium on Saturday to help Thailand win 4-3 on aggregate.
A member of Thailand’s Sea Games winning squad last year, Chanathip wants to play in the J-League soon.
“I want to improve my football and also take Thailand to the next level.
“The J-League is an excellent stepping stone for Asian players, who dream of playing in Europe.
“We now have many Asians playing in Europe and most are scouted in the J-League.
“Standing only at 1.58m, I may not be the tallest player around but height has never been an issue for me in Thailand,” said the BEC Tero Sasana attacking midfielder.
As for Charyl, the midfielder thanked Thailand for giving him a second lease of life to pursue his football career.
Charyl represented Switzerland in all age-group competitions and also won the Under-17 World Cup with them.
The 22-year-old was having a promising career in Europe until he broke his right leg.
“I was a member of Swiss club Grasshopper Club.
“It is, however, tough for an upcoming player if he gets injured in Europe.
“The competition is stiff so I decided to move to Thailand two years ago.
“I must thank Thailand for giving me the opportunity.
“It has been a dream for me as apart from the AFF Cup, I also won the Sea Games gold medal with Thailand last year.
“However, I hope to return to play for a European team soon,” said Charyl.