Coach Kim Sang Sik: 'Vietnamese players need to develop abroad'

Coach Kim Sang Sik acknowledges that winning the gold medal at the SEA Games is not easy, but he will give his best effort.

In a recent interview with Sports Seoul (South Korea), Coach Kim Sang Sik shared his thoughts on the goal for SEA Games 33, scheduled for December. The strategist said:

"I definitely feel some pressure. As a coach, naturally, I have to deliver results. I understand that it won’t be easy," he said. "Recently, many Southeast Asian countries have made strong progress, led by naturalized players. We have not caught up to them yet. However, we will leverage our strengths to become more competitive."

In 2025, Coach Kim Sang Sik won two championships with Vietnam’s national teams, namely the ASEAN Cup 2024 and the U23 Southeast Asia 2025. If he can help the U22 Vietnam team reach the top podium in the upcoming event, he will become the first coach in Southeast Asia to win three titles within a single year.

Nevertheless, according to Coach Kim Sang Sik, beyond achievements, he wants to contribute more to Vietnamese football:"Although achievements are important, I hope to contribute more to the development of Vietnamese football. Vietnam still has a long way to go. There are many shortcomings.

I want to contribute in various areas within my ability. Our players also need to develop and improve abroad. I want to be part of that,"Coach Kim Sang Sik mentioned the overseas development of Vietnamese players.

Related article

Overseas Vietnamese player Tran Thanh Trung brings great news for Coach Kim Sang Sik at SEA Games 33 According to the latest information, midfielder Tran Thanh Trung does not have a serious injury and can fully return after one week of rest. See more