Hanoi, 7 July, 2025 – Coach Kim Sang Sik has made his first round of cuts to the Vietnam U23 squad in preparation for the upcoming AFF U23 Championship 2025, with midfielder Le Van Thuan being the most notable omission.
The Vietnam U23 team is currently undergoing intensive training under coach Kim Sang Sik as they gear up for the regional tournament. The AFF U23 Championship is not only an opportunity for Vietnam to compete for top honors but also serves as a crucial step in assessing personnel for more significant tournaments later in the year.
After 10 days of training, coach Kim Sang Sik praised the players for their professionalism and dedication. However, he has now trimmed the squad by releasing eight players, including: Nguyen Quang Vinh (Song Lam Nghe An), Nguyen Dang Duong (The Cong Viettel), Le Dinh Long Vu (Song Lam Nghe An), Dinh Xuan Tien (Song Lam Nghe An), Nguyen Le Phat (PVF), Le Van Thuan (Thanh Hoa), Nguyen Bao Long (PVF), and Dinh Quang Kiet (Hoang Anh Gia Lai).
Among the names, the exclusion of Le Van Thuan has drawn the most attention. The Thanh Hoa midfielder enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 season, seizing opportunities to shine and earning the “Best Young Player” award in the V.League. His performances had raised expectations that he would be a key part of the national U23 squad.
The decision to leave Van Thuan out has disappointed many Thanh Hoa fans and supporters of the player. However, considering the overall quality and depth in Vietnam’s midfield, the decision is understandable.
Coach Kim Sang Sik has several strong midfield options at his disposal, including Van Truong, Cong Phuong, Van Khang, Thai Son, Viktor Le, and Duc Viet—players who not only performed well in the recent domestic season but are also familiar with the tactical philosophy of the Korean manager.
In the attacking department, Van Thuan would have faced stiff competition from the likes of Thanh Nhan, Quoc Viet, Dinh Bac, and even his club teammate Ngoc My.
With such competition and depth in the squad, coach Kim Sang Sik decided to release Van Thuan back to Thanh Hoa FC, allowing him to continue developing and preparing for future opportunities at the national level.
Hong Phuc
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