The idea of Coach Park Hang Seo returning to lead the Vietnam national football team amid their current crisis is on the minds of many fans. However, reality suggests that such a scenario may not be as straightforward.

 1. The downfall post-Park Hang Seo era

Following the conclusion of the AFF Cup 2022, Park Hang Seo’s contract with the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) ended, marking the beginning of a significant downturn for the national team.

Since June 2023, under the leadership of both Coach Philippe Troussier and his successor Kim Sang Sik, the team has only managed 5 wins, suffered 13 losses, and recently secured a draw against India. This poor run has drawn parallels to the dismal 2009-2010 period following Vietnam's first AFF Cup victory in 2008.

Amid declining confidence and results, fans have begun longing for the return of Coach Park Hang Seo, hoping he could reignite the team’s former glory.

 2. A return that could boost morale

If Park Hang Seo were to return, there is reason to believe that the team could see immediate changes, particularly in terms of spirit and fighting mentality, and perhaps even short-term results.

Park has proven adept at inspiring his players and fostering a sense of unity reminiscent of a close-knit family. Should he return, key players such as Quang Hai, Hoang Duc, Tien Linh, and Que Ngoc Hai would likely regain their form, moving away from the instability seen since Park’s departure.

Moreover, Park’s resourcefulness and deep understanding of his players could potentially lead Vietnam to success or at least achieve their target of reaching the final of the AFF Cup 2024.

 3. Long-term challenges remain

While Park Hang Seo could help the team achieve short-term goals, such as success in the upcoming AFF Cup, reversing the overall downward trend in Vietnamese football is a much greater challenge.

Restoring the motivation and peak form of his former players would be difficult, as many now have obligations to their high-value club contracts, something that was less prevalent when Park first arrived. This makes it challenging to reignite the same level of dedication seen in the past.

Furthermore, building a strong foundation with younger players to replace aging veterans with diminished drive would also be a formidable task. While short-term successes might be attainable, the long-term sustainability of such achievements is uncertain.

In moments when the ship is unsteady and sinking, patience and gradual rebuilding are crucial. Attempting to salvage success with a few immediate wins may not address the underlying issues that Park himself foresaw when he parted ways with the team after the 2022 AFF Cup.

Duy Nguyen