Unexpected decision
It is not unusual for a 33-year-old player to retire from the national team. But Van Quyet's story surprised fans. Van Quyet has remained the same throughout his nearly 18 years of playing football, always thirsty and dedicated.
A few weeks ago, Van Quyet scored his 116th goal in the V.League, thereby equaling Le Cong Vinh's record. It is only a matter of time before the striker from Thach That (Hanoi) soon surpasses this number and becomes the player with the most goals in the history of the tournament. Van Quyet seems to have not yet passed the decline of his career.
Coach Kim Sang-sik called Van Quyet up to the national team for many reasons. Obviously, the Vietnam team is lacking a striker. In the 20 minutes against India, Van Quyet did things that many of his young teammates have not been able to do. He controlled the ball, moved and created especially dangerous opportunities.
On the sidelines of the pitch, a player told the writer that Van Quyet brings a completely different training atmosphere. He still quietly practices more, wakes up early, goes to bed early and maintains a professional lifestyle over the years. Many young players therefore have to practice like their seniors.
Just a few passes, fans suddenly thought of a prospect: why doesn't the Vietnam team try to revolve around Van Quyet?
Then, when everyone was hoping for a "savior" for the Vietnam team at the ASEAN Cup 2024, Van Quyet suddenly announced his retirement from the national team. Mr. Kim Sang-sik heard the decision from his student before the match took place. Obviously, the Korean strategist was very regretful.
Now Mr. Kim Sang-sik has to look for a new solution, but where to find it? That is to say, a 34-year-old player said goodbye to the national team but surprised everyone. No one remembers the poor performance of the Vietnam team. All topics mentioned Nguyen Van Quyet.
The halo of simplicity
Nguyen Van Quyet deserves to enter the “temple” of Vietnamese football legends. But the aura around him is very simple. Having real estate, expensive cars and a huge fortune, Van Quyet returns home after each match on an old motorbike worth less than 10 million VND.
He carried his son Van Quan sitting on the saddle of his motorbike and left Hang Day Stadium like any other father. On the street, no one would think that Van Quyet is a big star.
A long-time friend of Van Quyet is sometimes surprised by the striker's behavior. Before a very important and sensitive match, Van Quyet can still invite his opponent to have coffee. When asked: "Aren't you afraid of gossip before the match?" - Van Quyet calmly said: "My heart is pure, I'm not afraid of anyone."
Every morning, if he doesn't have a training schedule, Van Quyet still has the habit of sitting down to drink coffee after taking his children to school. He is ready to talk and welcome any fan who recognizes him. In contrast to a tough player on the field, Van Quyet in real life easily gives people a pleasant feeling.
Van Quyet's position in the club is number 1, but he is happy and willing to contribute even if it is just on the bench in the national team. Because, that is the dream, the pride of the family.
There will be many soaring, flashy sentences about Nguyen Van Quyet's massive football career. In the words I hastily typed about this striker, there are only ordinary stories outside the field. Van Quyet's simple halo is what remains in the hearts of many fans.
