Ikhsan Fandi is set to become the first Singapore-born Lion to play in Japan after signing a one-year deal with Japanese third-division club Thespa Gunma.
The 27-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Thai club BG Pathum United on July 7, thanking the club and its supporters in an Instagram post. BG Pathum helped facilitate the transfer.
Ikhsan said the move is an opportunity to test himself in a more competitive environment and work towards playing in Japan’s top two divisions.
A new challenge in Japan
Founded in 1995, Thespa Gunma reached Japan’s second division within 10 years. The club currently competes in the J3 League after being relegated from J2.
Ikhsan has already joined light training sessions after arriving in Gunma on July 4. He will wear jersey No. 90.
Adjusting to life in Japan will take time, especially because English is not widely used. Ikhsan said he will rely on translators and teammates while learning Japanese.
He is confident about adapting after previous spells in Spain, Chile and Norway.
National team eyes Asian Cup boost
Singapore coach Gavin Lee believes the move will benefit both Ikhsan and the national team ahead of the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Lee said playing in a demanding league will help Ikhsan improve and hopes the transfer encourages more Singaporean players to pursue opportunities in Japan.
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