According to Lao Dong, coach Phung Thanh Phuong has said goodbye to Ho Chi Minh City club after his contract expired. The team of the city named after Uncle Ho also did not extend the contract with Mr. Phuong.
Under the leadership of coach Phung Thanh Phuong, Ho Chi Minh City club has overcome the 2024-2025 season with many difficulties, especially in terms of strength and finance.
Despite no longer having a quality foreign player squad like last season, and facing a big disadvantage when goalkeeper Patrik Le Giang was injured at the end of the season, the team still completed the goal of staying in the league one round early, finishing in 10th place with 28 points.
Not only is coach Phung Thanh Phuong highly appreciated for his role in uniting the team and stabilizing the players' psychology during difficult times, especially when there was a risk of players struggling due to late salary, bonus and handover fee.
Mr. Phuong was a player, then an assistant and then a head coach of Ho Chi Minh City Club, and a person who deeply understands the identity and football culture of the city. His departure, in the context that the team has not yet clearly defined the direction for the new season, raises many questions about the long-term plan of the team's leadership.
It is known that other teams in the V.League have contacted Mr. Phuong to take the lead. However, the next destination of this strategist has not been confirmed.
The departure of coach Phung Thanh Phuong is considered a big regret for those who love Ho Chi Minh City club, when the team needs stability and those who understand the local identity more than ever.
