A growing trend across the region

The trend of naturalizing foreign players or recruiting footballers with local heritage has been ongoing in Southeast Asia for years.

However, this movement has recently intensified, with countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and most recently Cambodia, aggressively pursuing naturalized talent to strengthen their national teams.

With Indonesia’s success in integrating foreign-born players, the football landscape in Southeast Asia is evolving rapidly.

Moving forward, regional teams are expected to become more diverse in ethnicity and playing styles, creating a more dynamic and competitive football environment.

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Indonesia’s success with naturalized players has influenced the entire region. (Photo: S.N)

Vietnam’s frustration and response

For Vietnam, 2024 was a year of mixed emotions. While the national team secured the ASEAN Cup title under coach Kim Sang Sik, three painful defeats to Indonesia in the World Cup 2026 and Asian Cup qualifiers under coach Philippe Troussier left fans disappointed.

The losses were analyzed from various angles - tactical errors, declining form of key players, and a lack of motivation. However, what frustrated Vietnamese fans the most was Indonesia’s heavy reliance on naturalized players.

Unlike Vietnam’s squad, which was composed almost entirely of homegrown players, Indonesia fielded a team boosted by talent from abroad.

This shift made a significant difference, as Indonesia appeared vastly improved compared to their previous encounters with Vietnam. Their new approach raised concerns about whether Vietnam could remain competitive without adopting similar strategies.

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The Vietnamese national team is still in the game, but they may have to take a different path.  
Photo: SN

Vietnam’s cautious approach to naturalization

Despite initial hesitation, Vietnam has now stepped into the naturalization game by recruiting Brazilian-born striker Rafaelson. His impact was immediate - helping Vietnam secure the ASEAN Cup title with his goal-scoring prowess.

Additionally, the selection of Nguyen Xuan Son, a player of Vietnamese heritage, further signaled a shift in the team’s approach. These moves excited fans, who are eager to see more talented players join the squad and elevate Vietnam’s standing in international football.

However, while naturalization can bring short-term success, it also presents long-term risks. Vietnam must be careful not to rely too heavily on foreign-born talent, as it could hinder the development of its domestic football system.

Ultimately, the foundation of Vietnamese football must be built on strong youth development, improved infrastructure, and professionalized clubs, coaches, and referees. Without these elements, any success from naturalization may be short-lived.

Singapore serves as a cautionary tale. Once a pioneer in naturalizing foreign players to strengthen its national team, Singapore has now fallen behind in Southeast Asia, struggling to maintain competitiveness. Vietnam must learn from this example and prioritize sustainable growth over quick fixes.

Duy Nguyen