Coach Kim Sang Sik is likely to call up Xuan Son to Vietnam's U22 squad for the SEA Games if the tournament organizers allow teams to use two overage players.

A busy year for coach Kim Sang Sik

Coach Kim Sang Sik has returned to Vietnam earlier than planned to tackle a packed schedule in 2025. Alongside preparing Vietnam's national team for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers starting in March, the South Korean tactician is focusing on the U23/U22 Vietnam team as they gear up for the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers and the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand at the end of the year.

Since 2024, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has provided support for Kim Sang Sik by allowing the U22 team to train alongside the senior national team during FIFA Days. This approach helps young players gain experience and enables the coach to assess emerging talent.

In 2025, Kim Sang Sik faces dual challenges. While the national team's clash with Malaysia in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers is crucial for advancing to the next stage, the U22 Vietnam squad faces a grueling journey at the SEA Games.

Before the SEA Games, U23 Vietnam will compete in the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers. The team aims not only to secure a spot in the finals but also to use the tournament as a stepping stone for success at the regional sports event.

Will Xuan Son join the SEA Games squad?

As of now, the SEA Games organizers have not officially announced whether teams will be permitted to field two overage players. However, speculation suggests that the Southeast Asian Games may reinstate this rule to enhance competition and match quality.

One pressing question is whether Kim Sang Sik will include Nguyen Xuan Son in his SEA Games plans. The forward is currently recovering from a nine-month injury.

Coach Kim Sang Sik recently highlighted key players in his plans, including goalkeeper Tran Trung Kien, midfielder Khuat Van Khang, and striker Bui Vi Hao. All three were part of the squad that triumphed at the 2024 ASEAN Cup.

Regarding Xuan Son, Kim acknowledged the importance of having high-caliber players like him in the U22 team to reclaim the SEA Games gold medal. However, he noted that decisions could change over the coming year.

While awaiting the final decision from the SEA Games organizers and monitoring Xuan Son's recovery, Kim and his staff are scouting players across the country. Born in 1976, the coach emphasized the critical role of young players, as they represent the future of Vietnamese football.

Dai Nam