Ho Chi Minh City, 2 August 2026 – Ho Chi Minh City Police FC have officially announced the arrivals of three new players as they continue strengthening their squad for the 2026/27 V.League 1 season. The latest additions include Dutch defender Dirk Abels, Belgian-Vietnamese full-back Lenn-Minh Tran, and goalkeeper Phan Van Bieu.
The headline signing is Dirk Abels, who was born in the Netherlands in 1997 and developed through the renowned PSV Eindhoven academy. Although he did not establish himself in PSV’s first team, Abels gained valuable professional experience with clubs including Sparta Rotterdam and Swiss side Grasshopper Club Zurich.
Standing 1.86 meters tall, Abels is known for his versatility across the back line. Naturally a center-back, he is equally comfortable at right-back or in a defensive midfield role, giving the coaching staff multiple tactical options.
Throughout his professional career, Abels has made 376 appearances across various competitions, contributing 14 goals and 17 assists—an impressive return for a defensive player and evidence of his ability to support attacks when required.
The club has also secured the signature of highly rated youngster Lenn-Minh Tran, one of the most promising overseas Vietnamese talents. Born in 2007 to a Vietnamese father and Belgian mother, the defender developed through the youth system of Genk before continuing his career in the Netherlands with MVV Maastricht.
Last season, Lenn-Minh Tran made 32 appearances, gaining valuable experience in European football. Blessed with excellent pace, sound technical ability, and a modern tactical understanding, the 19-year-old is capable of playing on either flank, providing added flexibility to Ho Chi Minh City Police FC’s defensive setup.
In goal, the club has recruited Phan Van Bieu, who is expected to strengthen competition between the posts. Born in 1998, the goalkeeper represented Vietnam’s U22 national team at the 2019 SEA Games and has accumulated valuable experience in the V.League.
A product of the PVF Football Academy and SHB Da Nang, Van Bieu has earned a reputation for his sharp reflexes and consistency. Although he has often served as a backup goalkeeper during his career, he has consistently impressed whenever called upon.
The arrival of Abels, Lenn-Minh Tran, and Van Bieu significantly enhances the squad depth of Ho Chi Minh City Police FC ahead of the new campaign. With a balanced mix of international experience, youthful potential, and domestic quality, the club hopes these reinforcements will increase its competitiveness as it aims for a successful 2026/27 V.League 1 season.
VSN/RPT
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