Only one overseas Vietnamese player is guaranteed a spot in Vietnam U23 team

Out of the three overseas Vietnamese players who have acquired Vietnamese nationality, just one name is confirmed for selection.

Vietnam U23 is preparing for two consecutive training camps. In the fourth camp of 2025 (from November 10 to 19, 2025), the team will participate in the Panda Cup 2025 International Friendly Tournament in China, featuring strong teams such as China U23, Uzbekistan U23, and South Korea U23. About 26 players are expected to be called up for this training period.

According to previous information, coach Kim Sang Sik has decided not to call up Vadim Nguyễn, an overseas Vietnamese player who showed a fairly positive performance with SHB Đà Nẵng. The two overseas Vietnamese players who will join the Vietnam U23 squad soon are Viktor Lê and Trần Thành Trung.

However, Trần Thành Trung's place is not guaranteed yet. Although his recent injury is not severe and he has been starting in the last two matches, Thành Trung still needs to demonstrate more convincing performances. His ability to adapt to the Vietnam U23 playing style and his physical condition will also be carefully evaluated.

Trần Thành Trung will face strong competition for his position in the Vietnam U23 team, especially with players like Xuân Bắc and Khuất Văn Khang likely returning to U23 instead of joining the national team this time. The midfield will be crowded with excellent players such as Văn Trường and Công Phương as well.

The only overseas Vietnamese player considered certain to be called up for this U23 Vietnam camp is Viktor Lê. The Russian-Vietnamese player remains a key figure for Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh, with extensive V-League experience and frequent call-ups to the Vietnam U23 team. Despite his potential, even his starting position in the U23 squad is not guaranteed.

Right after finishing the tournament in China, the Vietnam U23 team will enter the fifth training camp of 2025 from November 23 to December 19, 2025. This phase is regarded as the final preparation before the 33rd SEA Games. The team will train in Vũng Tàu from November 23 to 29, then move to Ho Chi Minh City before departing for Thailand on December 2 to participate in the Games.