Since becoming eligible to represent Vietnam, Nguyen Xuan Son has been central to Kim Sang Sik’s plans whenever fit. The Thep Xanh Nam Dinh striker’s importance goes beyond being a regular starter: he is a player capable of carrying the national team.

Football commentator Quang Huy rates Xuan Son as the best striker not only in Vietnamese football but across Southeast Asia. Kim’s approach, particularly his attacking plans, has consistently revolved around the 29-year-old.

Yet there are signs that Xuan Son is no longer at his peak, with diminishing sharpness and growing injury concerns as he gets older. He is currently receiving treatment for a hamstring injury and needs at least two months to recover.

In the worst-case scenario, he could miss the 2027 Asian Cup finals. Looking further ahead, he may also be unavailable for future national team camps. Relying too heavily on him risks leaving Kim short of options.

Finding someone to replace Xuan Son, or share the responsibility for scoring goals, is far from straightforward. Dinh Bac is one of Vietnam’s best forwards at present, but he is at his most dangerous on the wing.

One newcomer Kim has given an opportunity to is Williams Minh Hoang. The Ho Chi Minh City Police striker made an impression at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup with one goal and one assist. At just 19, however, he needs more time to develop.

Other domestic forwards, including Tien Linh, Tuan Hai, Gia Hung and Viet Cuong, are not leading choices at the moment. They may earn national team call-ups, but matching Xuan Son’s impact or taking on a similarly influential role would be a considerable challenge.

Kim’s answer could lie with a naturalised player, and Olaha Manh Duc may be among the names the South Korean coach is considering.

Olaha became familiar to V-League followers during his time at Song Lam Nghe An and now plays for Ho Chi Minh City Police. Standing 1.86 metres tall, he offers physical strength, experience and the ability to operate as a lone striker.

He shares several qualities with Xuan Son and, also aged 29, could provide an alternative or help carry the scoring burden. His years in the V-League would be an advantage if Kim needs a forward who can settle in quickly.

The 2027 Asian Cup will be a demanding test. If Olaha becomes eligible to represent Vietnam, he will need to perform well for his club, maintain his fitness and form, and be ready to adapt to Kim’s tactics to compete for a place.

Dai Nam