These delays in payment are not merely an internal matter. They could lead to severe penalties from the Thai FA, including hefty fines and potential point deductions, further exacerbating the club’s predicament.
The situation is worrying: if players refuse to take the field for their next match at the end of January due to this ongoing dispute, PAFC risks losing its license and facing extinction.
Adding fuel to the fire are rumours of factions on Phuket who would welcome the club’s demise. They are dissatisfied with the current management under Higher Sports Phuket, citing concerns about the club’s direction and operational strategy.
Several former employees are allegedly poised to form a rival club, either from the ashes of PAFC or as a direct competitor next season. This potential new entity is rumoured to be spearheaded by the popular former coach, “Coach Go,” and could attract a significant portion of the current squad, who are all out of contract at the end of the season.
Amidst the financial turmoil, whispers of discord within the playing squad have also surfaced. Some speculate that the recent string of poor results may be deliberate, with players allegedly “throwing” matches to express their dissatisfaction with the dismissal of Coach Go and the subsequent appointment of his replacement, Coach Tum.
In recent interviews, Coach Tum acknowledged the need for drastic changes to address this potential mutiny within the ranks. He has expressed his desire to bring in a wave of new players, many of whom he has previously worked with, to revitalise the squad and foster a more conducive working atmosphere. He believes this influx of fresh talent will create a team more aligned with his training regime and tactical approach.
The club is taking steps to navigate its financial difficulties. A short term financial injection is apparently imminent and cost-cutting measures are underway, with the club shedding its most expensive players and reducing the overall squad size.
Rungsak “Mark” Krachrak, a star defender and a vocal critic of the current situation, has already departed, signing for promotion hopefuls Samutsakon City in the T3 West division. Overseas players Torky and Bebe, now out of contract, are reportedly in discussions with other clubs. Further departures are expected, aiming to alleviate the wage bill and quell the growing discontent.
PAFC is also exploring alternative venues for both matches and training sessions in the second leg of the season. The current home ground, Surakul Stadium, is proving to be a costly option, especially when compared to the low or no-cost arrangements enjoyed by other provincial teams in the T3 league.
While the current outlook appears bleak, there are successful models within Thai football that demonstrate the potential for profitability and community engagement. Clubs like Buriram United and Thai Port consistently attract crowds of tens of thousands and boast stadiums that host various sporting and entertainment events.
With the right investment and management, PAFC, with its unique appeal to both local and tourist audiences, could replicate this success and establish a thriving football culture on the island.