Will a European coach replace Mr. Tran Dinh Tien to lead the Vietnamese men's volleyball team?

The Vietnamese men's volleyball team is highly likely to be guided by a foreign expert - the first time in nearly 4 years.

According to information from SGGP, the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV) is actively working to progress towards signing a contract with an Italian expert for the position of head coach of the national men's volleyball team. This is considered a crucial step in the strategy to enhance professional quality and aim for major goals in 2026.

The negotiation process is currently underway, and the identity of this expert has not been disclosed. If all procedures proceed smoothly, the Italian coach is expected to arrive in Vietnam soon to begin work. It is known that this candidate possesses notable coaching experience and professional achievements, aligning with the development direction of Vietnamese men's volleyball in the new phase.

The most recent time the Vietnamese men's volleyball team used a foreign coach was during the 2021-2022 period, when Mr. Li Huan Ning (China) was appointed to prepare for the 31st SEA Games at home. Subsequently, the team was led by Coach Tran Dinh Tien for the past 3 years. Under the guidance of this Border Guard captain, the team won a bronze medal at the 32nd SEA Games in 2023, placed 4th at the 33rd SEA Games in 2025, was runner-up in one leg of the SEA V.League, and also left a mark at the AVC Cup.

In 2026, the Vietnamese men's volleyball team will participate in two important arenas: the SEA V.League and ASIAD 20. These are tournaments that require thorough preparation in both professional skills and tactics. Therefore, if the deal with the European expert succeeds, the team is expected to undergo a strong transformation.

Currently, national team players are competing in the first round of the 2026 national club championship in Dong Anh (Hanoi). After the tournament concludes, the national team will gather to prepare for upcoming international missions, with hopes of creating new progress for Vietnamese men's volleyball.