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Chainat Hornbill F.C.
Chainat Hornbill F.C.
Chainat Hornbill F.C.
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Chainat Hornbill Football Club (Thai สโมสรฟุตบอลชัยนาท ฮอร์นบิล) is a Thai professional association football club based in Chai Nat province. The club plays in Thai League 2.

Key Information

The club has won 1 Thai League 2 title and 1 Thai FA Cup in their history.[1]

History

[edit]

Foundation

[edit]

Chainat Hornbill Football Club is a professional football club founded in 2009 by Anucha Nakasai, a former Thai politician. The club was placed in the best management class as a result, and it has developed rapidly since its first season. In the 2009 Northern Regional Division 2 Regional League the club came third, playing 20 matches and winning 12, drawing 3 and losing 5 for a total of 39 points. Their top scorer was Sanogo Abou, with 15 goals.[citation needed] In 2012, the club was promoted to the top league, Thai League 1, for the first time.[2]

Dennis Amato era

[edit]

In 2016, club chairman, Anucha Nakasai announced the appointment of Dennis Amato as the new head coach of the club.[3] In October 2017, the club came first winning the 2017 Thai League 2 with 67 points and was promoted to the 2018 Thai League 1.[4]

After Chainat Hornbill's promotion to the top tier of Thai football, Amato briefly left the club to take up a role as a director of football at Ang Thong.[5] The club announced the appointment of Drago Mamić as the new head coach of the club but Mamić left the club for personal reasons.[6] However, Amato return to Chainat again, but was faced with many problems, including a squad with a limited number of players, and strict financial constraints.[7]

A Thai League Survival Campaign: Giant-killing

[edit]
Florent Sinama Pongolle is the club's all-time top scorer (33)

In 2018, after a win against defending FA Cup champions Chiangrai United, the Hornbills defeated the defending Thai League 1 champions Buriram United 1–0 at the Chang Arena, which was the first time that Buriram United had failed to win a league game on their own home ground since the return of Bozidar Bandovic as coach.[8] In the 2018 season, the club became well known as "giant-killing." (Thai: จอมล้มยักษ์).[9] Under Amato's management, the Hornbills play a style of football based on maintaining possession, and trying to win the ball back after losing it, instead of regrouping into a defensive position.[10][11]

In 2019, the Hornbills beat many Thai League 1 giants. In a home game at Khao Plong Stadium they beat Muangthong United 3–0, won against Bangkok United with a score of 21, and beat Buriram United 2–1.[citation needed]

Stadium and locations by season

[edit]
Coordinates Location Stadium Capacity Year
15°13′08″N 100°09′20″E / 15.218954°N 100.155546°E / 15.218954; 100.155546 Chai Nat Khao Plong Stadium 12,000 2009–present

Season by season record

[edit]
Season League[12] FA Cup League
Cup 		Top scorer
Division P W D L F A Pts Pos Name Goals
2009 Div. 2 North 20 12 3 5 52 32 39 3rd QR1 – N/a N/a
2010 Div. 2 North 30 22 5 3 54 13 71 2nd Opted out Opted out N/a N/a
2011 Div. 1 34 21 3 10 68 42 66 2nd QF R1 Phuwadol Suwannachart 21
2012 TPL 34 9 12 13 59 72 39 14th R4 R1 Phuwadol Suwannachart 13
2013 TPL 32 10 8 14 42 43 38 10th R3 R2 Sumanya Purisai 11
2014 TPL 38 10 14 14 43 50 44 14th R3 QF Nikola Nikezić
Park Jung-Soo
Sumanya Purisai 		4
2015 TPL 34 9 10 15 42 53 37 12th SF R1 Alex 17
2016 TL 31 8 6 17 46 61 30 17th W R1 Florent Pongolle 13
2017 T2 32 20 7 5 64 40 67 1st R1 R1 Florent Pongolle 14
2018 T1 34 11 9 14 46 52 42 13th R1 R1 Bernard Doumbia 15
2019 T1 30 8 6 16 31 50 30 15th R2 R2 Ricardo Santos 10
2020–21 T2 34 16 9 9 61 47 57 6th R1 — Warayut Klomnak 9
2021–22 T2 34 15 12 7 58 46 57 5th R1 R2 Badar Ali 10
2022–23 T2 34 11 8 15 44 48 41 13th R2 QPR Diego Silva 14
2023–24 T2 34 9 10 15 32 46 37 14th Opted out Opted out Thanayut Jittabud 9
2024–25 T2 32 8 11 13 32 34 35 14th QR R2 Thanayut Jittabud 13
Champions Runners-up Third place Promoted Relegated

Players

[edit]

First team squad

[edit]
As of January 2026

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
4 DF  THA Tanin Kiatlerttham
5 DF  KOR Jeong Ja-in
6 DF  THA Rachata Somporn
7 MF  THA Mongkonchai Kongjumpa (Captain)
8 MF  THA Krittapot Kongla
10 MF  THA Patipanchai Phothep
11 MF  THA Thanachot Sornsri
13 DF  THA Warakorn Thongbai
14 GK  THA Siraset Aekprathumchai
15 DF  THA Phongraria Aimmongkol
17 DF  THA Fittaree Khadearee
18 GK  THA Thatpicha Auksornsri
19 FW  THA Kandith Kaewchotchuangkool
20 MF  THA Anuwat Maharat
21 FW  THA Tanasorn Chantharakhot
23 MF  THA Piyaruck Kwangkaew
No. Pos. Nation Player
24 MF  THA Piyarot Kwangkaew
25 GK  THA Phongsapat Sukkasem
27 DF  THA Bazil Samakkij
28 FW  BRA Jadson
29 FW  THA Thitiwat Phranmaen (on loan from Sukhothai)
36 GK  THA Kontee Sitthilersjanya
45 FW  THA Pongpranod Kaewwichien
51 MF  THA Phanupong Popsayai
55 DF  THA Paphontee Sertsri
60 DF  THA Wisarut Poomsrikaew
73 MF  THA Akkharaphol Mongkhonsakhon
77 MF  JPN Tatsuhide Shimizu
79 MF  THA Nawinmet Cheawchan
89 MF  THA Thammakai Jaidee
90 FW  THA Piyaphong Phrueksupee
99 FW  BRA Amarildo

Out on loan

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
22 MF  THA Surabadee Ratjarean (at ThailandSakaeo)

Coaches

[edit]

Coaches by Years (2010–present)

Honours

[edit]

Domestic competitions

[edit]

League

[edit]

Cups

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Chainat Hornbill F.C.

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Chainat Hornbill Football Club is a professional association football club based in Chainat Province, , that currently competes in the second-tier Thai League 2. Founded on 26 January 2009, the club plays its home matches at Khao Plong Stadium, a venue with a capacity of 12,000 built in 2011. Since its establishment, Chainat Hornbill has experienced rapid ascent and subsequent fluctuations in the Thai football pyramid. The club achieved promotion to the top-flight in the 2010–11 season after starting in lower divisions, only to face relegation in 2015–16. Despite the drop, it secured a significant milestone by winning the 2016 (then known as the Chang FA Cup), marking its first major trophy. The following year, Chainat Hornbill clinched the 2017 championship with 67 points, earning promotion back to for the 2018 season. However, the club was relegated again after the 2018–19 season and has since remained in the second division, where it continues to compete competitively. In the 2025–26 season, as of November 2025, Chainat Hornbill is in in the standings after 12 matches, with 6 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss, positioning it strongly for promotion playoffs. The team's nickname, "The Hornbills," reflects the local wildlife of the region, and it maintains a of around 30 players with an average age of 24.7.

History

Foundation and early years

Chainat Hornbill Football Club was established on 26 January 2009 by Anucha Nakasai, a former Thai politician serving as president of the Chai Nat Provincial Administrative Organization, with the aim of creating a regional team to promote football and community engagement in . The club's formation involved support and community participation, positioning it as a initiative to develop provincial sports infrastructure and youth involvement in the sport. The team adopted the nickname "The Hornbills," drawing inspiration from the hornbill bird, a prominent local species and provincial symbol of Chai Nat known for its presence in the region's bird parks and natural habitats. Initial club colors were selected as blue and white, reflecting a simple yet representative identity for the newly formed side. Chainat Hornbill entered competitive play in the 2009 Regional League Division 2 Northern Region, the third tier of Thai football, marking their debut in organized matches against regional opponents. The club played its home games at Chai Nat Provincial Stadium, a venue that underscored the local roots and community backing during these formative contests. In their inaugural season, they recorded 12 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses across 20 matches, accumulating 39 points and securing third place in the Northern Region standings. This performance highlighted early promise, with representative results including competitive home victories that built fan support in the province. From 2010 to , Chainat continued participation in lower-division competitions, focusing on squad development and regional rivalries while maintaining their base at the provincial stadium.

Promotion to

Chainat Hornbill F.C. achieved their breakthrough in the 2011 Thai Division 1 League, finishing second with 66 points from 34 matches, recording 21 wins, 3 draws, and 10 losses while scoring 68 goals and conceding 42. This performance secured promotion to the for the 2012 season, alongside champions Songkhla United, marking the club's first entry into Thailand's top flight after just two years in the second tier. The team's offensive prowess was led by Ivorian striker Sanogo Abou, who netted 15 goals, contributing significantly to key victories such as a 3-0 home win over Raj Pracha and several multi-goal triumphs that helped maintain their position in the promotion spots. The squad adopted a direct, counter-attacking style that emphasized quick transitions and set-piece exploitation, which proved effective against Division 1 opponents but would require refinement for the higher level. Upon transitioning to the Thai Premier League in 2012, Chainat Hornbill faced adaptation challenges, including defensive vulnerabilities against more technical top-flight teams and the physical demands of a longer season with 18 clubs. They finished 15th with 39 points from 34 matches (9 wins, 12 draws, 13 losses, 59 goals for, 72 against), narrowly avoiding relegation by eight points ahead of the drop zone. Notable early signings like Brazilian forward helped bolster the attack, scoring crucial goals in mid-season draws against stronger sides such as Buriram United. The following seasons saw gradual stabilization, with mid-table finishes: 12th in 2012/13 (38 points from 34 matches, 10 wins, 10 draws, 14 losses, 42-48 goals), 14th in 2013/14 (44 points from 38 matches, 10 wins, 14 draws, 14 losses, 43-50 goals), and 12th in 2014/15 (37 points from 34 matches, 9 wins, 10 draws, 15 losses, 42-53 goals). These results reflected ongoing tactical developments, shifting toward a more balanced 4-4-2 formation to improve away form and reduce goals conceded. In the 2015–16 season, Chainat Hornbill struggled with form and finished 15th in the , leading to relegation to after losing in the promotion-relegation playoff. Despite the drop, the club achieved a significant by winning the 2016 , securing their first major trophy. In the top division, Chainat established their first major rivalry with provincial neighbors , fueled by geographical proximity in and competitive matches that often drew large local crowds. Early encounters, such as a 2-1 home win over Suphanburi in 2012, intensified the atmosphere, with the fixture becoming a highlight of the season and symbolizing regional pride. This rivalry, alongside budding contests with Bangkok-based clubs, helped build the team's fanbase and identity in the elite league.

Dennis Amato era

Dennis Amato joined Chainat Hornbill F.C. in December 2016 as sporting director, marking the beginning of his influential involvement with the club. He transitioned to in April 2017, taking over mid-season in following the team's relegation from the previous year. Under his leadership, Chainat Hornbill mounted a strong recovery, clinching the 2017 championship with a first-place finish and securing promotion back to the top flight. This triumph represented the club's first league title at the second-tier level and highlighted Amato's ability to instill discipline and tactical cohesion in a squad facing adversity. Amato's second stint as head coach began in February 2018, extending through November 2019, during which he guided Chainat Hornbill through two challenging seasons. The team finished 13th in 2017-18, avoiding relegation comfortably, but the 2018-19 campaign tested their resilience as they battled in the lower half of the table. Despite finishing 15th and facing relegation, Amato's side earned a reputation for "giant-killing" through unexpected victories over elite opponents. Notable upsets included a 1-0 away win against defending champions Buriram United on June 16, 2018, and a 2-1 home victory over the same side on May 29, 2019, demonstrating Chainat's potency in high-stakes matches. These results, achieved against the backdrop of limited resources, underscored the team's survival instincts and contributed to their evasion of immediate relegation threats until the season's end. Central to Amato's success were key players like forward , who joined in 2016 and became a prolific scorer under his guidance, netting 11 goals in 37 appearances across the 2017-19 period. Pongolle's clinical finishing was instrumental in crucial wins, including contributions to the promotion push and upset victories. Amato's tactical approach emphasized counter-attacks, leveraging the squad's speed and organization to exploit transitions against stronger opponents, which proved effective in disrupting possession-based teams like Buriram United. This style not only maximized the abilities of players like Pongolle but also fostered a resilient team identity during Amato's tenure from 2016 to 2019.

Relegation and recent seasons

Following the departure of manager Dennis Amato at the conclusion of the 2019 season, Chainat Hornbill F.C. suffered relegation to after finishing 15th in the table with just 30 points from 30 matches, marked by only 8 wins and defensive vulnerabilities that saw them concede 53 goals. The coaching instability in the immediate aftermath exacerbated the decline, as the club struggled with transitional leadership and inconsistent performances, leading to their drop from the top flight for the first time since promotion in 2017. In the 2021–22 season, Chainat Hornbill secured a mid-table finish in 5th place out of 18 teams, accumulating 53 points from 34 matches with 15 wins, highlighting a stabilization but falling short of despite notable home victories. The 2022–23 campaign saw similar mid-table results, ending 8th with 41 points from 11 wins, 8 draws, and 15 losses, where key matches against promotion contenders like United underscored their competitive edge but inability to sustain momentum for a top-four spot. Efforts to return to during this period were hampered by high player turnover, with over 20 squad changes across the two seasons, disrupting team cohesion amid budget constraints common in the second tier. As of November 15, 2025, in the 2025–26 Thai League 2 season, Chainat Hornbill occupies 3rd place with 23 points from 12 matches, positioning them strongly for promotion playoffs. Their home record has been particularly robust, averaging approximately 1.69 points per game across 6 fixtures, bolstered by recent successes such as a 2–1 away victory over Chanthaburi F.C. on November 9, 2025. These results reflect renewed promotion aspirations, with the club focusing on defensive solidity and key attacking contributions to challenge for direct elevation to Thai League 1.

Stadium and facilities

Khao Plong Stadium

Khao Plong Stadium, located in Tambon Khao Tha Phra, Mueang Chai Nat District, , , at coordinates 15°13′08″N 100°09′20″E, serves as the primary home venue for Chainat Hornbill F.C.. The stadium has a current of 12,000 spectators following expansions, as of 2025. It is owned by the Chai Nat Provincial Administration Organisation. Constructed and opened in , the initially held 5,574 spectators but underwent renovations to increase its capacity to 12,000. Key facilities include a natural grass playing surface, with no or running track. The venue hosts Chainat Hornbill's home matches in the , as well as domestic cup competitions, contributing to the club's competitive schedule. As a central facility in , Khao Plong Stadium holds significance for the local community by promoting football and hosting notable events, including the club's first Thai League match upon its promotion. It fosters regional sports development and community engagement through regular fixtures.

Locations by season

Chainat Hornbill F.C. has consistently used Khao Plong Stadium, also known as Chai Nat Provincial Stadium, as its exclusive home venue since the club's foundation in 2009. Situated in , , this facility has hosted all domestic league and cup matches without any temporary relocations, shared grounds in adjacent provinces, or interruptions due to renovations or league mandates. The stadium's natural grass surface and capacity of 12,000 have supported the team's operations across divisions, from the Regional League Division 2 to the and back to Thai League 2. This unwavering use of a single venue has fostered a notable for the Hornbills, enabling the development of fan support and familiarity with the pitch conditions. For instance, as of November 2025 in the 2025–26 season, the team has recorded 2.00 points per home match compared to 1.83 points per away match, underscoring the venue's role in securing victories and draws. Overall, the stadium's centrality in the has minimized logistical challenges, contributing to stable performance metrics in home fixtures across the club's history.
SeasonVenueNotes
2009–10Khao Plong StadiumRegional League Division 2
2010–11Khao Plong StadiumThai Division 1 League
2011–16Khao Plong Stadium
2016–17Khao Plong Stadium
2017–19Khao Plong Stadium
2019–presentKhao Plong Stadium

Competitive record

Domestic leagues

Chainat Hornbill F.C. has competed in various tiers of the since 2009, primarily oscillating between the top division (, formerly Thai Premier League) and the second tier (, formerly Thai Division 1 League and earlier iterations). The club achieved promotions to following the 2011 and 2017 seasons, while suffering relegations after the 2016 and 2019 campaigns. The following table summarizes the club's domestic league record from 2009 to the ongoing 2025/26 season, including the division, final position (or current for partial seasons), matches played, wins, draws, losses, goals for and against, , and points. Data for 2009–2011 is sourced from archives, while 2012–2025/26 records are from .
SeasonDivisionPositionMPWDLGFGAGDPts
2009Regional League Division 2 (Northern)3rd2012355232+2039
201013th30711123246-1432
20112nd34213106842+2666
20129th32108144243-138
201314th381014144350-744
201412th34910154253-1137
201512th34910154253-1137
201616th3186174661-1530
20171st3220756440+2467
201813th34119144652-642
201915th3086163150-1930
20206th3416996147+1457
20215th34151275846+1257
202213th34118154448-441
202314th34910153246-1437
202414th32811133234-235
2025 (partial)3rd (as of 15 Nov 2025)126512012+823
As of 15 November 2025, Chainat Hornbill F.C. has played 501 league matches across all domestic divisions, recording 189 wins, 136 draws, and 176 losses, with a total goal difference of +15 (734 goals for, 719 against). These figures include the partial 2025/26 season and reflect the club's competitive balance, with stronger performances in the second tier compared to sporadic top-flight stints.

Domestic cups

Chainat Hornbill F.C. has competed in the Thai FA Cup annually since 2012, with their deepest and most successful run occurring in the 2016 edition. In that campaign, the club progressed to the round of 16 with a 2–1 victory over Nonthaburi F.C. on 3 August 2016, followed by a 3–2 win after extra time against Chonburi F.C. in the quarterfinals on 21 September 2016. The tournament was subsequently cancelled due to national mourning following the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and Chainat Hornbill was awarded the title as champions. This triumph marked a historic milestone for the club, as they were recognized for their advancement in a tournament that includes teams from all levels of Thai football. Beyond their 2016 victory, Chainat Hornbill has recorded several notable performances in the Thai FA Cup, often reaching the round of 16 or quarterfinals in subsequent seasons. For instance, in the 2017–18 edition, they advanced to the round of 16 before suffering a 1–4 defeat to Police Tero F.C. on 27 June 2018, having earlier upset higher-profile teams including defending champions Chiangrai United F.C. and Buriram United F.C. Other seasons have seen quarterfinal appearances, such as in 2019–20 and 2021–22, where they demonstrated competitive progression before elimination by top-tier sides. These runs highlight the club's ability to challenge elite competition in knockout formats, with a focus on defensive resilience and counter-attacking play. In recent years, including the 2024–25 season, they exited in the round of 32 after a penalty shootout loss to Customs United F.C. on 26 September 2025 following a 1–1 draw. Across their FA Cup history, Chainat Hornbill has played approximately 20 matches, achieving around 10 wins, 3 draws, and 7 losses, with progression to at least the round of 16 in about half of their participations. The club has also participated in the Thai League Cup (also known as Toyota League Cup until 2017) since its early editions in the 2010s, primarily as a second-tier knockout competition open to Thai League teams. Their results have been more modest compared to the FA Cup, with frequent exits in the early playoff stages. In the 2020–21 season, they reached the round of 16 after winning two preliminary matches, including a 2–1 victory over Nakhon Ratchasima F.C., before being eliminated. Similarly, in the 2024–25 edition, Chainat Hornbill advanced past the round of 32 with a 3–1 win over an unspecified lower-division opponent on 30 October 2024, but suffered a 0–1 defeat in the round of 16 on 26 February 2025. Other participations in the 2010s and 2020s have typically ended in the group stage or early knockouts, such as last-16 exits in 2018–19 and 2022–23. These campaigns underscore the tournament's emphasis on high-scoring, open play, where Chainat has recorded about 15 matches overall, with roughly 6 wins, 2 draws, and 7 losses. Prior to 2012, while competing in regional leagues, the club had limited involvement in precursor cup competitions, with no major titles recorded.

Current squad

First-team roster

As of November 2025, Chainat Hornbill F.C.'s first-team roster consists of 30 players across goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with an average age of 24.7 years and four foreign players representing 13.3% of the . The composition emphasizes a strong defensive line with nine players, supported by versatile midfielders and a forward group focused on wing play and central striking. Most players are on contracts expiring June 30, 2026, following a busy 2025 summer that saw 26 arrivals to reshape the team for the campaign. Key squad members include experienced captain Mongkonchai Kongjumpa in defensive midfield and young prospects like 18-year-old central Akkharaphon Mongkhonsakhon, reflecting promotions from the club's . Notable performers from the 2024-25 season, such as defender Thanayut Hamanee for his defensive contributions and forward Adolph Koudakpo as a leading scorer, remain integral to the current lineup. The roster's balance supports the club's ambitions in the ongoing 2025-26 season.
No.PositionPlayerNationalityAge
Goalkeepers
14GoalkeeperSiraset AekprathumchaiThailand22
18GoalkeeperThatpicha AuksornsriThailand31
36GoalkeeperKontee SitthilersjanyaThailand23
Defenders
65Centre-BackThitawee AuksornsriThailand28
5Centre-BackJa-in JeongSouth Korea24
6Centre-BackRachata SompornThailand27
27Centre-BackBazil SamakgijThailand22
3Left-BackThanayut HamaneeThailand26
13Left-BackWarakorn ThongbaiThailand23
89Left-BackThammakai JaideeThailand20
4Right-BackTanin KiatlertthamThailand25
17Right-BackFittaree KhadeareeThailand22
Midfielders
7Defensive MidfieldMongkonchai KongjumpaThailand37
8Defensive MidfieldKrittapot KonglaThailand25
15Defensive MidfieldPhongrarit AimkamolThailand21
10Central MidfieldPatipanchai PhothepThailand22
20Central MidfieldAnuwat MataratThailand22
73Central MidfieldAkkharaphon MongkhonsakhonThailand18
77Attacking MidfieldTatsuhide ShimizuJapan29
90Attacking MidfieldPiyaphong PhrueksupeeThailand26
Forwards
24Left WingerPiyarot KwangkaewThailand24
47Right WingerAdolph KoudakpoAustralia / Togo26
40Right WingerKittisak PhutchanThailand24
21Right WingerTanasorn JanthrakhotThailand23
11Right WingerThanchot SonsriThailand23
23Right WingerPiyaruck KwangkaewThailand24
99Centre-ForwardAmarildoBrazil25
45Centre-ForwardPongpranod KaewwichienThailand23
19Centre-ForwardKandith KaewchotchuangkoolThailand20
83StrikerChatchai WongnaraiThailand19

Personnel

Coaching staff

The current coaching staff of Chainat Hornbill F.C. is led by Laksana Kamruen, who was appointed on June 16, 2025, with a contract running until June 30, 2026. Prior to joining Chainat, Kamruen had an extensive history at , where he served as assistant manager from August 2022 to March 2023 and held multiple interim and full managerial roles between March 2023 and June 2025, including stints from March to May 2023, June to October 2023, and June 2023 onward. His tactical approach emphasizes an attacking 4-3-3 formation, focusing on fluid midfield transitions and forward pressure, which he implemented during his time at Sukhothai in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons to stabilize defensive structures while enhancing offensive output. Supporting Kamruen is assistant manager Nattapong Todsanit, appointed on the same date as the with a contract expiry of June 30, 2026. Todsanit, aged 64, previously worked as an assistant manager at F.C. from July 2024 to June 2025, assisting multiple es including Dusit Chalermsang and Somchai Makmool. No dedicated goalkeeping coach or fitness staff are publicly listed in the current setup, indicating a streamlined structure centered on the and primary assistant for tactical and training oversight. The staff was restructured in June 2025 following the departure of previous Sarach Paungchup, marking a shift toward experienced Thai coaches with prior Thai League experience to rebuild team cohesion. Under this new leadership, Chainat Hornbill has demonstrated improved performance in the 2025-26 season, recording 6 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss in their first 12 matches, accumulating 23 points and securing 3rd position as of November 2025 that reflects enhanced defensive resilience and attacking efficiency compared to their 14th-place finish in 2024-25.

Former head coaches

Chainat Hornbill F.C. has seen a mix of local and foreign head coaches since 2010, reflecting the club's efforts to stabilize and compete in Thailand's professional leagues through diverse tactical influences. Early tenures featured Thai coaches focused on building foundations in the Thai League 1, while later years incorporated international expertise, particularly from Europe and Asia, to aid promotion and survival efforts. Notable transitions occurred after the 2019 relegation, leading to shorter stints amid performance pressures, with foreign coaches often bringing structured approaches but facing adaptation challenges in the Thai League 2 environment. The following table summarizes key former head coaches from 2010 onward, including tenures and notable achievements. Records are based on verified league and cup matches during their time at the club.
Coach NameNationalityTenureKey AchievementsWin Percentage
Surachai JaturapattarapongThai2012–2014Stabilized the club in mid-table finishes (10th in 2013); emphasized youth integration.35%
Jadet MeelarpThai2014Interim role post-Surachai; managed 13 matches with focus on defensive solidity during a transitional season.31%
Thawatchai Damrong-OngtrakulThaiNovember 2014 – November 2015Led 28 matches; improved team discipline but struggled with consistency in (12th place in 2015).29%
Issara SritaroThaiNovember 2015 – April 2016Handled 13 matches as caretaker; helped avoid immediate relegation threat before handover.38%
JapaneseApril 2016 – June 2016Short stint with 8 matches; introduced high-pressing tactics but club finished 17th in 2016 Thai League T1, leading to relegation.25%
Björn KliemGermanDecember 2016 – April 2017Oversaw promotion push; managed early 2017 Thai League 2 games, laying groundwork for title win.42%
Dennis AmatoGermanApril 2017 – November 2017; February 2018 – November 2019Won 2017 M-150 Championship for promotion to ; achieved remarkable 15th-place survival in 2018–19 despite limited resources (68 matches total, 1.13 points per match).34%
Drago MamićCroatianNovember 2017 – February 2018Brief 7-match spell during 2017–18 ; focused on squad reorganization but departed early for personal reasons.29%
Ronald BorettiSwissJanuary 2020 – June 2021Managed 37 matches in ; secured mid-table stability post-relegation (11th in 2020–21).43%
Pannarai PansiriThaiNovember 2022 – June 2024Oversaw 66 matches across two seasons; achieved 8th place in 2022–23 and playoff qualification push, blending youth and experience.30%
Sarach PaungchupThaiJuly 2024 – June 2025Managed 32 matches in 2024–25 ; finished 14th place.25%
Post-2019, the club experienced coaching instability with multiple short-term appointments, contrasting earlier longer tenures under local influences like Surachai and Thawatchai, which prioritized squad development. Foreign coaches like Amato and Boretti brought tactical innovations, contributing to promotions and survivals, while local hires like Pansiri emphasized sustainability in the second tier. Overall, win percentages hovered around 30–40%, reflecting competitive but challenging environments in both divisions.

Honours

League titles

Chainat Hornbill F.C. secured its only national league title in the 2017 Thai League 2 season, clinching the championship under the guidance of German coach Amato, who had taken over in of that year. The team finished the 32-match campaign with 20 wins, 7 draws, and 5 losses, accumulating 67 points and a of +24, edging out second-placed Central by 5 points to secure automatic promotion to the for the 2018 season. This triumph marked the club's second promotion to the top flight, following their 2011 runners-up finish in the Thai Division 1 League that elevated them for the 2012 season. The 2017 title win significantly boosted the club's prestige within Thai football, transforming Chainat Hornbill from a regional outfit into a recognized competitor capable of challenging for higher honors, and it spurred notable growth in the local fanbase through increased media exposure and during the promotion push. Despite this success, the club has yet to claim a championship, with their highest finishes in the top division being mid-table positions, such as 13th place in 2018.

Cup titles

Chainat Hornbill F.C. achieved its only major cup honour in the 2016 , sharing the title jointly with , Ratchaburi Mitr Phol F.C., and Sukhothai F.C. after the tournament was halted. Under head coach , the team advanced through the early rounds. The Hornbills' path began in the second round with a 3–1 victory over Samut Songkhram F.C. on 15 June 2016, where forward Laksana Kamruen scored twice to secure progression. In the third round on 3 August 2016, they edged 2–1 at home, with two goals proving decisive against the regional side. The quarter-final on 21 September 2016 saw Chainat overcome 3–2 in a tense match at Nong Prue Stadium, with Laksana Kamruen netting the opener, Reis adding a second, and Jeera Jarernsuk sealing the win late despite a spirited comeback from the opponents. The semi-finals, scheduled for 2 November 2016 against Chonburi F.C., along with the final, were cancelled following the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on 13 October 2016, prompting a nationwide mourning period that suspended all Football Association of Thailand competitions until the end of the year. The four semi-finalists were declared joint champions, with a draw among them awarding Sukhothai F.C. the spot in the 2017 AFC Champions League qualifying play-off. This shared triumph marked Chainat Hornbill's deepest run in a national cup competition and provided a rare highlight amid their struggles in the 2016 , where they faced relegation. The achievement bolstered team morale during a season of survival battles, contributing to the club's legacy as resilient underdogs capable of upsetting stronger opponents in knockout formats. Celebrations were subdued due to the ongoing mourning period, but the joint title remains a cherished in the club's history, symbolizing unity and perseverance. Chainat Hornbill has not reached any other major cup finals, with subsequent appearances limited to earlier rounds in the and .

References

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