Today at noon, Coach Kim Sang-sik touched down at Noi Bai International Airport, marking the start of a new chapter for the Vietnam National Football Team. Arriving from Busan on flight VN417, the newly appointed coach is set to begin his duties, aiming to steer Vietnamese football to new heights.
Kim Sang-sik, born in 1976, has been signed to a two-year contract effective from May 1, 2024, until March 31, 2026. He will lead both the national and U-23 teams, drawing a monthly salary of approximately USD 20,000. Tomorrow at 2:30 PM, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) will officially introduce Kim Sang-sik during a contract signing ceremony and press conference.
In his tenure in Vietnam, Kim will be supported by a robust team of assistants, including 12 staff members comprising three from South Korea and nine from Vietnam. The VFF and Coach Kim are currently finalizing the coaching staff, with Choi Won-kwon confirmed as one of the assistants.
Kim Sang-sik’s previous stint was with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in South Korea, where he claimed the K-League championship in 2021, the Korean FA Cup, and the Super Cup in 2022. Known for his successful playing career with over 400 appearances for renowned clubs like Jeonbuk, Sangmu, and Seongnam Chunma Ilhwa, Kim has been described by the Korean media as having a “winning career,” with five K-League titles as a player.
Taking over from Philippe Troussier, Kim Sang-sik’s immediate focus will be on achieving success at the 2024 AFF Cup and progressing through the qualifiers for the 2027 Asian Cup, particularly if Vietnam does not advance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. His appointment makes him the second Korean coach to lead the Vietnam National Team, following the highly revered Park Hang-seo.
This strategic move by the VFF underscores their commitment to leveraging international expertise to elevate Vietnamese football, aligning with their long-term goals of regional dominance and global competition. The expectations are high for Coach Kim, as he brings a fresh perspective and a proven track record to one of Southeast Asia’s most passionate footballing nations.
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