FRESH START AT PATHUM FOR ILHAN

He wants to enjoy football again after injury, lack of first-team action mar Belgian stint

- Deepanraj Ganesan

While a dream move to Europe did not turn out the way Ilhan Fandi had wanted, the Lions striker is now looking forward to a fresh start closer to home.

The 21-year-old has joined his brother Ikhsan at Thailand's BG Pathum United on a two-year deal.

He had opted not to renew his contract with Belgian second-tier side KMSK Deinze, where he had little first-team action following a long injury layoff.

While there was also interest from Japan and South Korea, a concrete offer came from Pathum, where Ilhan aims to make a similar impact as Ikhsan, 25, who recently inked a three-year contract extension after amassing 37 goals in 67 matches over 212 seasons.

Oldest brother Irfan, 26, was also with Pathum, but ended his 512year stint with the Rabbits in June, when he joined fellow Thai League 1 side Port FC.

Ilhan, who can also play as an attacking midfielder, noted that Pathum had shown interest as early as November 2023.

He said he felt the need to "enjoy my football again" after his Belgian stint.