Buriram United star Supachok Sarachat has officially joined J League side Consadole Sapporo, as confirmed by the club earlier today.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder has been a key player for Buriram since 2016, winning four league titles and three domestic cups during his stint at the Thunder Castle. During that time he has made 150 league appearances for the club, scoring 35 goals and providing a further 17 assists.

He has also been a senior Thai international since 2017, earning 18 caps and scoring 5 goals. He was a key part of the side’s AFF Suzuki Cup triumph earlier this year.

Considered one of Thailand’s most promising young talents, Supachok’s move abroad has been hotly anticipated by fans, with Japan always the most likely destination.

Supachok’s deal with Consadole Sapporo is structured as an initial six-month loan deal, with an option for a further six and eventually the possibility to make the transfer permanent after a full year.

The maverick attacker is following in the footsteps of fellow Thai international Chanathip Songkrasin, who joined Consadole from Muangthong United back in 2017 with a similar arrangement, going on to spend four and a half years in Hokkaido.

What can Consadole fans expect from Supachok?

Given their similar positions, it’s understandable that Supachok will inevitable that he will draw comparisons to Chanathip. However, they are very different players.

Supachok can best be described as a more ‘direct’ attacker than Chanathip. Both are stellar for their ability in one-on-one situations, but the former is more eager to get at the final defensive line and create shooting opportunities. In short, he’s less of a playmaker and more about end-product.

Most commonly deployed as a left-winger or attacking midfielder, he is capable of playing anywhere across the forward line.

He has also shown excellent drive and mentality during his time with the club, standing out in a strong lineup and remaining resilient when the side were going through a rough patch.

Furthermore, the structure of the deal gives him an initial period to settle in and acclimatise, before a full pre-season with the club and an opportunity to push for a starting spot.

Supachok could still add to his honours list before departing for Japan. After sealing the Thai League title last month, Buriram are in the semi-finals of both the League Cup and FA Cup and likely be favourites in both competitions.