Phuket Andaman FC Ready for New Thai League 3 Season as Southern Derby Returns

Phuket Andaman FC is preparing for another campaign in Thailand’s Thai League 3, where the club will once again represent Phuket in the Southern Zone. Most of the team's rivals remain unchanged, including Samui United, setting up another pair of highly anticipated island derbies after Samui claimed both meetings last season.

In July, the club officially secured its license to compete in the 2026/27 Thai League 3 season. While the approval was expected, one of the most encouraging developments is the continuity within the organization. The club has retained its senior management, coaching staff, and the core of last season’s squad, preserving the stability built over the past year.

During the licensing process, Phuket Andaman FC successfully met all six requirements set by the Football Association of Thailand, including sporting standards, infrastructure, personnel, legal compliance, financial stability, and business operations.

The club will continue carrying Phuket’s flag in Thailand’s professional football system, while Phuket United FC remains the province’s representative in the semi-professional ranks. Local supporters are hopeful both clubs will continue to develop in the coming years.

The Southern Zone of Thai League 3 is expected to kick off in mid-September. The league will feature ten teams:

• Chumphon United FC

• Yala

• Muangtrang United

• Nakhonsi United

• Nara FC

• Phuket Andaman FC

• PSU

• Suratthani City

• Ranong United

• Samui United

Unlike Thailand’s higher divisions, Thai League 3 is organized by regional zones, helping clubs reduce travel costs. However, attracting sponsors remains a major challenge, as attendance figures and broadcast audiences are relatively modest.

Despite operating on a limited budget, Phuket Andaman FC enters the new season in a more stable position than in previous years. Although the club no longer has the backing of a major corporate sponsor such as Kata Group, it continues to benefit from strong administrative support.

Club president Thammawat Wongcharoenyot, who also heads the Phuket Sports Association (PSA), remains committed to building a sustainable football project rather than chasing rapid promotion. His long-term vision focuses on creating a competitive and financially stable team capable of consistently performing at the regional level.

Another important factor for the club is the decision to retain head coach Jarupong Saengphong, who enjoys strong support from both players and fans. His leadership has become a cornerstone of the team's recent progress after previous managerial changes disrupted the club's development.

The squad is currently being strengthened ahead of the new campaign. Alongside the returning core players, Phuket Andaman FC is adding new signings, including at least one foreign player, while continuing to promote young footballers from Phuket into the first team.