This speculation arose as his contract with The Cong Viettel FC was nearing its end, exciting Vietnamese football fans who believed Hoang Duc had a greater potential for overseas success compared to his predecessors like Cong Phuong, Quang Hai, and Van Hau.

However, despite the completion of the V-League 2023/24 season, Hoang Duc's future remains unclear. The likelihood is that he will continue playing domestication rather than pursuing opportunities abroad.

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Hoang Duc holding a trophy. Photo: DL

Among his peers born in 1997-1998, midfielder Hoang Duc stands out as one of the most accomplished. Since 2017, he has played a crucial role in various national teams (U20, U23, and the national team) and at his club. His career is adorned with numerous accolades, with the AFF Cup title being the only significant omission.

Hoang Duc's career is marked by both financial success and widespread recognition, on par with notable players like Quang Hai and Tuan Hai. At 26, he has achieved what many Vietnamese footballers aspire to: fame, wealth, and substantial on-field success.

Despite his impressive resume, Hoang Duc seems to lack the ambition to venture abroad. At 26, this is an ideal age to leave the V-League and challenge himself in a new environment, which could further enhance his skills and contribute to Vietnamese football's growth. Nevertheless, he has chosen to stay, reflecting a preference for the "safe zone" over the risks associated with playing in a foreign league.

This decision suggests a lack of the same level of drive seen in his teammates who have played abroad, such as Quang Hai, Cong Phuong, and Xuan Truong. While it’s his personal choice and he’s under no obligation to help elevate Vietnamese football to new heights, it is still a missed opportunity for the sport in Vietnam.

Vietnamese football needs players like Hoang Duc and Tuan Hai to step out of their comfort zones and pursue international careers, which would help regain regional stature and progress on a continental scale. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened, at least not yet, which is disappointing for fans and the football community.

Information about Hoang Duc

Viettel FC: Hoang Duc has been a crucial player for Viettel FC, one of Vietnam's top football clubs. He joined the club in 2017 and has played a significant role in their successes in the V-League, Vietnam's top professional football league. He helped Viettel FC secure the V-League 1 title in 2020, which was a notable accomplishment for the team.

Vietnam U20 and U23: Hoang Duc has been a standout player in various age-level national teams, including the U20 and U23 teams. He played a pivotal role in the U23 team's success in regional tournaments. One of his standout moments was during the 2019 SEA Games, where he played a key role in helping Vietnam's U22 team win the gold medal.

National team: Hoang Duc has become an integral part of the Vietnamese national team. He has participated in several important tournaments, including the AFC Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers.

Hoang Duc is known for his versatility in the midfield. He possesses excellent ball control, vision, and the ability to distribute the ball effectively. His playing style is characterized by his composition under pressure, precise passing, and capability to score crucial goals. He often contributes defensively as well, showcasing his well-rounded skills on the pitch.

Achievements and honors
V-League 1 Champion (2020): With Viettel FC
SEA Games Gold Medal (2019): With Vietnam U22 team
Vietnam Golden Ball (2021): Recognized as the best Vietnamese football player of the year

Duy Nguyen