At the time, Thai media reported that Kahl had responded positively to Madam Pang’s approach, although whether he would ultimately represent the “War Elephants” still depended on his future with Sweden.

Kahl was born in Sweden to a Thai mother. He was once a standout player for the Scandinavian country’s U21 team.

The 24-year-old defender belongs to the same generation as Anthony Elanga, the former Manchester United player now with Newcastle. The pair often played together on the left flank for Sweden U21.

One of Kahl’s strengths is his ability to operate both as a center-back and left-back, much like Arsenal’s Calafiori, whom he once faced at U21 European level.

In April, after discussions with Madam Pang and FAT representatives, Kahl asked for more time before giving an answer.

As a result, Hudson was unable to call him up during Thailand’s preparations for the ASEAN Cup 2026.

With the door to the Swedish national team still not completely closed, Kahl once again wants more time to consider his options before deciding on his international future.

That uncertainty has fueled reports on Thai social media that Kahl has turned down the opportunity to play at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.

After Thairath previously suggested there was “a very strong possibility that Kahl would play for the War Elephants during the September FIFA Days,” Madam Pang and Thai football now have little choice but to wait patiently.

Hudson is expected to announce Thailand’s squad for the rematch with Vietnam in just over a week.

Kahl, a star for Danish club Aarhus GF, which was recently eliminated by Benfica in the Europa League playoffs 6-2 on aggregate, is still waiting for a call from Sweden coach Graham Potter.

If Kahl does not take part in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 and is also overlooked by Sweden for its UEFA Nations League campaign in League B this month and again in November, Madam Pang will seek to persuade him to join Thailand for the Asian Cup 2027 early next year.

Ngoc Huy