The decision awarding ceremony took place at the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Justice, with the participation of representatives of the Department of Justice, Ho Chi Minh City Police, Ho Chi Minh City Police Club and relatives of the two players.
At the ceremony, Ms. Tran Thi Hong Hanh - Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Justice presented the decision and flowers to congratulate the two new Vietnamese citizens.
According to the announcement, the President has signed Decision No. 1407/QD-CTN and Decision No. 1408/QD-CTN dated August 25, 2026 on granting Vietnamese citizenship to Mr. Olaha Manh Duc and Mr. Williams Minh Hoang.
Olaha Manh Duc expressed his happiness at completing an important milestone after playing and living in Vietnam.
I feel very happy because my dream has come true. I am very honored to have Vietnamese citizenship," Olaha shared.
This player also said that his goal is to continue to improve himself so that he can contribute to the club and the Vietnamese national team if given the opportunity.
For me, the goal is always to continue to improve myself so that whenever I am called up, I can dedicate myself, whether at the club or in the national team," Olaha said.
Regarding the fact that he has not been called up to the Vietnamese national team, Olaha said that he still hopes to receive a call in the future and is determined to continue his efforts to wait for an opportunity.
Olaha also revealed that the Vietnamese name "Manh Duc" was chosen based on the similar meaning to the English name Michael. He was inspired by two friends, Pham Xuan Manh and Phan Van Duc.
Meanwhile, Williams Minh Hoang said he was "very happy and honored" to become a Vietnamese citizen, and sent thanks to those who have accompanied and helped him.
Vietnamese blood is always flowing in me. Of course, I want to make my family proud, strive for myself, the club and all Vietnamese fans," Williams Minh Hoang shared.
This player also aims for the opportunity to play for the Vietnamese national team. He believes that he is still young, needs to continue to accumulate experience and consider the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup as an important experience.
Williams Minh Hoang said that his forte position is number 9 center forward. He also mentioned goalkeeper Le Giang Patrik, who was called up in the same campaign, and considered him as a big brother in the national team.
