During the training session in March 2025, coach Kim Sang-sik decided to include overseas Vietnamese players Viktor Le and Andrej Nguyen An Khanh in the list of U22 Vietnam preparing to participate in the 2025 CFA Team China international friendly tournament. Obviously, they bring new winds to the youth teams.
In recent years and beyond, Vietnam's youth teams have welcomed many overseas Vietnamese players back to their country in many different ways. However, this group of players has almost no difference in expertise compared to local players, many of whom cannot even integrate due to language and lifestyle barriers.
The rare name that still leaves its mark is Mac Hong Quan. The midfielder born in 1992 was born in Vietnam, then went abroad to live before returning home. Moreover, his resume was highly appreciated before returning home.
This time, Andrej Nguyen An Khanh is ready to bring new winds to U22 Vietnam. The midfielder born in 2005 was introduced and invited to try out by coach Troussier 2 years ago. At that time, An Khanh had a hard time exploding when he was not yet 18 years old.
But after 2 years, the midfielder playing abroad has developed. He is still seen as having a difference in playing mindset compared to his teammates. trained in Europe and having a time to train for the Czech Republic U18, Andrej Nguyen An Khanh will add an option for interim coach Dinh Hong Vinh.
Meanwhile, Viktor Le has also lived in Europe for many years, and had the opportunity to audition at AC Milan. Viktor Le's journey is more thorny but also an advantage for the player with two Vietnamese - Russian blood lines.
A few years ago, he took a probationary period in Binh Dinh, sometimes it seemed like he was "eroding" his career on the bench. After that, Viktor Le struggled to find an opportunity at Hong Linh Ha Tinh and gradually showed his ability. In the 2024-2025 season, the midfielder born in 2003 proved that coach Nguyen Thanh Cong was right to put his trust in him.
Viktor Le has many positive experiences that few overseas Vietnamese players have. Of course, for Viktor and Andrej to be able to prove their ability in the U22 Vietnam team, it is still a long story, requiring a clearer answer. However, having the opportunity to experience them is something that Vietnamese football needs to exploit.
