Refreshing the U22 Vietnam squad

After a period of concentration and screening, coach Kim Sang-sik announced the list of 28 U22 Vietnam players entering the intensive training phase to prepare for major tournaments at the end of 2025.

Emphasis on physical requirements

Under the direction of coach Kim Sang-sik, U22 Vietnam is building in a modern, scientific and disciplined direction. The list of 28 selected players mainly come from the country's leading training centers, currently playing in the V-League and the First Division. This is a group of players born from 2003 onwards, within the age range registered to participate in the 2026 U23 Asian qualifiers and the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand.

Notably, many veteran names such as goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan or central defender Le Nguyen Hoang - who have participated in previous SEA Games - are not on the list. This shows that coach Kim is prioritizing renewing the squad, giving opportunities to young faces with potential and suitable for the tactical philosophy he pursues.

Làm mới đội hình U22 Việt Nam - Ảnh 1. — U22 Vietnam is training hard for the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 tournament. Photo: VFF

Through training sessions and internal matches, experts believe that coach Kim Sang-sik is building a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing ball control, high pressing and quick transitions. That is the typical style of Korean football - where he has achieved many successes both as a player and a coach.

This time, the selection of personnel shows that Mr. Kim places great importance on physical strength, tactical discipline and the ability to adapt to high intensity of competition. Players who do not meet the intensity of movement or the ability to handle the ball quickly are eliminated, making room for young factors with great desire and good physical foundation.

Promote enthusiasm

In the current list of 28 players, Nguyen Thai Son ( Thanh Hoa Club) is considered the "heart" of the midfield. Possessing extensive experience in both the U23 and national teams, Thai Son has an intelligent and flexible playing style, suitable for Coach Kim's scheme. He is a player with the ability to control the tempo, distribute the ball and perform effective pressing.

Nguyen Duc Viet (HAGL Club) is a modern, fiery defensive midfielder with good sweeping ability. After a period of injury and decline, he is making a strong comeback, playing an important role in the team's long-range defense system. Meanwhile, Nguyen Quoc Viet (HAGL Club) continues to be the hope in attack. As the top scorer at many youth levels, Quoc Viet possesses sharp scoring ability, intelligent movement and cool finishing. He is expected to be the main "number 9" in upcoming tournaments.

Similarly, "ball distribution machine" Nguyen Van Truong ( Hanoi Club) is a notable name in the attacking midfield. With good technique, high creativity and breakthrough handling, Van Truong can play the role of "conductor" or third striker behind the striker. In addition, this midfielder is also versatile, can drop back to the position of midfielder to recover the ball or even as a center back.

The return of striker Nguyen Dinh Bac helps U22 Vietnam have more attacking options. The Hanoi Police player is highly appreciated by experts for his mature playing style in the V-League, his ability to dribble past opponents and his dangerous finishing. In an interview with the press, the striker born in 2004 emphasized the spirit of healthy competition in the squad and personal determination after a long time off due to injury.

In recent training sessions, coach Kim Sang-sik has always emphasized enthusiasm, even in friendly matches. In terms of technical skills, the coaching staff focused on ball control and passing skills - key factors to help the team operate effectively. U22 Vietnam is gradually improving its physical strength, technical tactics and spirit, aiming to successfully defend the title at the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship.

According to plan, the Vietnam U22 team will continue to train at Ba Ria Vung Tau Stadium (HCMC) until July 14, before leaving for Indonesia to compete in the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship.