Cong Phuong is one of the few Vietnamese players who have played abroad. He was not as successful as the other players. Currently, he even plays in the First Division of Vietnam and is not in coach Kim Sang-sik's plan for the Vietnam National Team. During the same time as Cong Phuong, over the years, Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Tien Linh... have occupied important positions in the national team, winning the most prestigious individual awards in Vietnamese football. However, if it comes to brand, not everyone can be like Cong Phuong.
Although the 30-year-old player had unsuccessful experiences in Japan, because the brand he created during his time at Hoang Anh Gia Lai, from his playing style and technique, it was still enough for him to be the choice. Even some aspects that have been teased on social media have become a " strength" for reviews of his ability to attract the public.
If one day, Cong Phuong plays well and is called back to the national team, it is certainly a success in terms of vision for J.League, the unit that chose him as ambassador for this tournament. What lessons can Vietnamese football learn from this? To develop football and promote the brand is an important factor. But in return, what does V.League have for marketing?
With such a quality court, such a quality of matches, such a quality of referees, such harsh reactions from football teams... there is no chance to promote. To have a fulcrum to promote, of course, we must look at how Vietnamese football builds identity, professionalizes its image, and improves communication work; and V.League itself must improve quality, starting from the professionalism of the clubs.
Not stopping there, cooperating with strong football backgrounds, encouraging players to go abroad and having strategies, not following interests or situations; taking advantage of the images of stars and investing in youth football... If done well, calling for businesses to accompany will probably become simpler.
