Emaviwe takes on new challenge with Chiangrai

At the start of the 2024 football season, Jordan Emaviwe outlined three key objectives for his campaign: To establish himself as a regular starter for Balestier Khalsa in the Singapore Premier League, secure a national team call-up, and earn a spot in the Lions squad for the Asean Championship.

- Deepanraj Ganesan

With all three goals accomplished, the 23-year-old central defender begins 2025 with a new team and a fresh set of ambitions after joining Thai League 1 side Chiangrai United.

Emaviwe has set himself a challenge to showcase his talents and earn a longer overseas contract – his deal is till the end of the season in April – and keep the club in the top flight.

The Beetles are currently in one of three relegation places, sitting 14th in the 16-team league.

"The past year I set a few goals for myself and I felt that if I were to accomplish all of those things, it's time for me to go and challenge myself somewhere outside of Singapore," said Emaviwe, who also fielded offers from other Thai and Indonesian sides, before opting for Chiangrai.

The club announced Emaviwe's signing on their social media page on Jan 7, stating that he is "ready to wear the No. 6 shirt to strengthen Chiangrai" while describing him as a utility player who can play as both defender and forward.