Former national midfielder, Nguyen Minh Chau, has decided to retire, just three matches before the end of the V.League.

Midfielder Nguyen Minh Chau says goodbye to football. — Photo thethaovanhoa.vn

Chau, 32, is currently a key player of Hai Phong FC. He has asked the club’s managers to end his contract early for personal reasons.

Chau said he wanted to unite with his wife, whom he married last April and is living in Australia.

“I have thought a lot before making the decision. I am not a person who gives up but it is the right time. I am getting old and there are young players who can replace me in the club. They are Hai Phong’s future and we should give them a chance,” said Chau, who played for Hai Phong for 15 years.

“More importantly, my wife and kid are in Australia and I want to spend time with them now,” he added.

Coach, Truong Viet Hoang, regretted the decision but said he respected it.

Chau used to be called to the national team in 2008, and he was part of the team, which won the ASEAN Football Federation Cup, the first ever one for Viet Nam. — VNS