Buriram United coach Masatada Ishii has been appointed as technical chairman of the Thai national men's team with a directive to work closely with War Elephants tactician Mano Polking for the King's Cup and other tournaments.
His appointment was confirmed on Thursday by Thai men's team manager Nualphan Lamsam.
The War Elephants will be taking part in the 49th King's Cup tournament in Chiang Mai next month before playing two away friendlies against Georgia and Estonia in October.
These assignments will be followed by the second round 2026 World Cup qualifying matches for Asia starting November with the Thais attempting to make it to the 10-team third stage.
Nualphan said the main target of the national team would be to reach the third round of the Asian qualifying tournament.
"We have been working non-stop and had several discussions with Mr Masatada Ishii before appointing him," said Nualphan.
"We have worked out a plan with short- and long-term targets but our main goal is to perform well in the 2026 World Cup second qualifying round for Asian zone in November.
"We don't have much time at our disposal so we will have to start working hard from now.
"I am grateful to [Buriram United chairman] Newin Chidchob and [BG Pathum United chief] Pavin Bhirombhakdi for helping us with this project."
Both Newin and Pavin are backing Nualphan in her bid to become president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT).
The Thai men's team have never qualified for the World Cup finals.