Jian Caraig’s Rise in the Game

At just 20 years old, right back Jian Caraig of UP fighting Maroons already carries himself with the poise of someone far beyond his years. For those who’ve seen him play, there’s an effortless composure in his movement, the kind that makes him a joy to watch. Calm on the ball yet explosive with his runs and tackles, Jian is an electrifying presence on the pitch. 

He may not yet be a household name in Philippine football, but every game he plays makes that reality closer. It’s like what Gen Zs say nowadays: “If you know, you know.” 

The quality he brings speaks for itself.

“My brother was the first to join the varsity team and I also followed soon after when I was 5 years old,” Jian recalled. “For the first 3 to 4 years of playing, I think I was just playing for fun.”

A moment that truly inspired him and deepened his love for football was the 2014 World Cup, when he’d wake up early to watch the matches before heading to school. From then on, football became his outlet to express who he is and what he’s capable of.

His journey since then reads like a young footballer’s dream, one built on hard work as much as talent. From HEDCen’s varsity to being recruited by Makati FC, Jian’s early years took him far beyond local fields, playing in tournaments across Singapore, Malaysia, Spain, Denmark, France, Sweden, and Japan. 

“I was also able to win the U15 PFF National Championship with Makati FC when we represented NCRFA,” he shared. 

But the player we see today—calm, confident, and composed at right back—didn’t just appear overnight. 

He spent six years with DLSZ, where he helped the team secure a silver medal finish in UAAP Season 85 juniors, all while continuing to suit up for Makati FC and later, Stallion Laguna’s U19 squad post-pandemic.

That same year, his hard work earned him his first call-up to the U-23 national team. 

“It felt so good because I felt that all my hard work paid off… and when I made my debut, it was a proud moment not just for me but my family, being able to represent our name on the international stage, repping the Philippines.”

After his stint in Spain with FC Odisea, Jian returned home to suit up for the UP Fighting Maroons, a decision he describes as both humbling and transformative. 

“It’s the great reputation that UP has for football that gets to you first. And then, when you get in the team, it’s the environment and the standards that are set which make you not just want to be a better player but a better person overall.” 

The rookie right back has quickly become one of UP’s most dependable defenders: Calm in possession, fearless in challenges, and unshaken under pressure. But what truly sets him apart is his secret weapon: his long throw-ins. A sight familiar to UP supporters, Jian wipes the ball dry before launching it deep into the box, turning a simple throw into a dangerous attacking play. It’s a move that defines him: confident, calculated, and full of energy.

Choosing UP might just be the next stepping stone in Jian’s journey where his goals feel a little clearer, his dreams a little closer. Surrounded by a culture of excellence and a program that pushes him to grow.

“When I work hard and train hard, I feel good, and when I do, I believe I’m able to show confidence in my game when I step onto the pitch to play,” he said.

Now a regular for the U-23 side, Jian admits that representing the country only fueled his hunger further. 

“After this year’s U23 competitions… I am indeed hungrier and more driven to do my all for whatever team I play for,” he said. 

“I wanted to make it pro when I started taking football seriously and I believe opportunities come when you work hard for it,” he added. 

And if there’s one thing that defines Jian Caraig, it’s that tireless spirit. 

“As a player, I want to be remembered as someone who always gives everything, win or lose. Football gave me everything and after playing I’d like to be able to give back to football.”

Quietly rising, electrifying to watch, and playing with pride, Jian Caraig is not just one for the future. He’s a talent worth watching right now.

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