The Lion City Sailors are delighted to announce the signing of Singapore international Ilhan Fandi on a two-year contract, as the club continues to strengthen its attacking options ahead of the 2026/27 season.
One of Singapore’s brightest footballing talents, the 23-year-old forward returns home after valuable spells in Belgium and Thailand, where he tested himself against different styles of play and gained experience at a higher level.
Ilhan signed for Belgian second-tier side KMSK Deinze in December 2022, before joining BG Pathum United in July 2024. His impressive performances saw him named Young Player of the Tournament in the 2024/25 ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup, before he spent last season on loan with Buriram United.
The move marks a homecoming for the third son of Singapore football legend Fandi Ahmad, as Ilhan returns to the league where he first announced himself. He was named Singapore Premier League (SPL) Young Player of the Year in 2022 after scoring 17 goals to finish as the league’s top local scorer and help Albirex Niigata (S) lift the league title, earning his move overseas soon after.
Ilhan has also underlined his growing stature on the international stage. In Singapore’s decisive AFC Asian Cup qualifier away to Hong Kong last November, he came off the bench with the Lions trailing 1-0 to set up Shawal Anuar’s equaliser, before unleashing a stunning long-range winner to seal a famous comeback and send Singapore to the Asian Cup on merit for the first time.
Known for his intelligent movement, technical quality, and ability to combine with those around him, Ilhan offers far more than goals alone. Comfortable operating across the frontline, he links play effectively, creates chances for teammates, and possesses the composure to make a difference in decisive moments.
Sailors Director of Football Luka Lalić, who has known Ilhan since childhood, believes the forward is ready to take the next step in his career.
“I’ve known Ilhan since he was eight years old, and it’s been incredible to watch his journey,” said Lalić. “He has always had exceptional talent, but what stands out now is his maturity, work ethic and understanding of the game. His experiences overseas have shaped him into a more complete player.
“His performances for the national team have shown the quality he possesses. He’s intelligent, selfless in the way he links play, and has the mentality to deliver in big moments. We believe he’ll play an important role in helping us compete for honours across every competition.”
For Ilhan, the opportunity to work under Head Coach Jesús Casas, play regular high-level football, and continue his development ahead of the AFC Asian Cup were all key factors behind his decision to join the Sailors.
“Coach Jesús has worked with some of the best players in the world and our conversations have only made me more excited to start this new chapter under him,” said Ilhan.
“I’ve grown a lot as a player and as a person through my experiences overseas, but I feel this is the right project for me at this stage of my career. This club has ambitions not just to be successful in Singapore, but also to become one of the region’s top clubs – and that’s something I want to be part of.
“With the Asian Cup coming up in January, it’s also important for me to be playing regularly and competing in tournaments such as the Shopee Cup and ACL (AFC Champions League) Two. I want to put myself in the best possible position to contribute to Singapore, and I believe joining the Sailors gives me the most ideal environment to keep improving while helping the club achieve its goals and my personal goals.”
