“First of all, I would like to thank the Football Association of Thailand and especially the president of the association for honouring, trusting and contacting me personally,” said Ikeda.

“Of course, as soon as the Thai national team contacted me, I felt proud and excited about this because it's an opportunity to work abroad for the first time. 

“Challenging work, with the mission being to bring the Thailand national team to the World Cup in 2027. I will use all my experience and ability to lead the team to the goal. Please welcome and support me, Thai football fans."

The 54-year-old Ikeda served as Japan women’s head coach between 2021 and 2024, guiding the Nadeshiko to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 quarter-finals, having previously excelled with his nation’s youth sides.

Ikeda will get a chance to assess his players when Thailand compete in an invitational tournament in Dubai in February, with qualifying for the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ to follow later in the year.