Coach Harry Kewell reveals the surprising reason behind accepting the head coach position at Hanoi FC

06/10/2025 14:28:00 SportScoop

Former Australian star Harry Kewell revealed for the first time why he accepted the offer to lead Hanoi FC in the V-League, even though he had attracted attention from numerous clubs in Europe and Asia before.

On the bus ride from Noi Bai Airport to the club’s headquarters, when directly meeting the club’s leaders and players, Coach Harry Kewell said:

"Every country has its own culture, and I always tell my children: ‘Embrace the culture where you are.’ If you can do that, life becomes much easier. I will enjoy life in Hanoi just like I enjoy football.

Coach Harry Kewell eagerly looks forward to experiencing the atmosphere and football environment in Vietnam. Photo: Hanoi Football Club

I have worked with many Asian players, from Japan to South Korea, and they all have a great spirit of effort. I believe Vietnamese players are similar. I want to create an environment where they are always eager to learn and improve themselves. As they improve, the team will also advance."

Harry Kewell added that he feels grateful to football for bringing him to many wonderful places:

"Hanoi is a beautiful city. Previously, when we came here to play, we were eliminated early, so we couldn’t fully enjoy it. This time returning, I am very excited and eager to start working immediately."

The Australian coach also shared about his personal life:

"I love cuisine, my wife cooks very well, and I want to try all Vietnamese dishes – except mushrooms! But first, football is still the number one priority. I just want to focus on Hanoi FC and the tasks ahead."

Finally, he sent a message to the fans:

"I am very excited to meet the supporters. Hopefully, together we will create a fantastic atmosphere and bring Hanoi FC back to its former glory. That is why I am here."

Harry Kewell, born in 1978, is a well-known figure to Vietnamese football fans.

At the national team level, the Australian legend earned 56 caps, scored 17 goals, and took part in two World Cups (2006, 2010).

At club level, he gained fame in the English Premier League with Leeds United and Liverpool, winning the UEFA Champions League 2004/2005 and FA Cup 2005/2006.

After retiring at age 36, Kewell began his coaching career in 2017, managing several clubs in England such as Crawley Town, Notts County, Oldham Athletic, and Barnet.

In 2022, he joined Celtic’s coaching staff (Scotland) as assistant to head coach Ange Postecoglou before becoming head coach of Yokohama F. Marinos in early 2024.

Under his guidance, the Japanese club finished as runners-up in the AFC Champions League 2023/2024.

Harry Kewell’s first match leading Hanoi FC will be against Ninh Binh FC in round 7 of the V.League 2025/26.

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