Hanoi, 7 September, 2025 – Defender Vu Van Thanh of Hanoi Police FC has undergone ankle surgery on the morning of September 7 in Ho Chi Minh City, with doctors confirming he will need at least seven months of recovery before returning to action.
The surgery lasted nearly two hours, during which doctors shaved bone fragments, reattached damaged ligaments, and treated cartilage issues in his ankle. The recovery period is expected to last between six and seven months, meaning Van Thanh may only return in the final stages of the 2025/26 V.League 1 season.
The 29-year-old sustained the ankle injury while playing for Vietnam at the 2024 ASEAN Cup. For months, he managed the pain with ice therapy and continued to play, but the extended strain worsened the damage. As a result, Van Thanh has missed the last two national team call-ups and was absent for Hanoi Police FC in recent fixtures, including the National Super Cup, V.League matches, and their ASEAN Club Championship opener.
Beyond cartilage damage, doctors also identified ligament issues and secondary complications caused by prolonged stress on the ankle. This explains why his recovery is expected to take longer than the typical four to five months for similar injuries. Van Thanh previously underwent knee surgery in 2018 at the height of his career, marking this as his second major operation.
His setback highlights a difficult year for the national team. Van Thanh becomes the sixth Vietnam international to undergo surgery in 2025, following Nguyen Van Toan, Bui Vi Hao, Ho Tan Tai, Nguyen Xuan Son, and Doan Ngoc Tan. The growing injury list poses a significant challenge for head coach Kim Sang-sik as he prepares for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.
For Hanoi Police FC, however, the absence of Van Thanh is not expected to heavily disrupt their campaign. Under coach Mano Polking, the club boasts strong squad depth with several capable replacements available, ensuring they remain competitive across all four competitions this season.
Despite the challenges, Van Thanh’s resilience and previous comeback experience give hope for a full return. Known for his versatility and tireless work on the flanks, he remains a vital figure for both club and country when fit. His recovery will be closely monitored, with fans eagerly awaiting his return to the pitch in 2026.
Hong Phuc
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