Vietnam's national team undergoes a major defensive overhaul, with key veterans no longer guaranteed a spot.

Coach Kim Sang-sik has summoned 14 defenders to train in South Korea, igniting fierce rivalry before the 2026 ASEAN Championship, with numerous stalwarts losing their secure positions as the Korean tactician aims for a versatile, contemporary, and fiercely contested defense.

The training camp in South Korea is not only a crucial preparation step for Vietnam ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Championship, but it also triggers intense competition in the defensive line. The Coach Kim Sang-sik has included up to 14 defenders in his 27-man squad, showing the Korean coach's determination to overhaul the backline, while sending a clear message that even the most loyal veterans are no longer assured of starting spots.

Compared to other positions, the defense receives the most investment. While three goalkeepers—Le Giang Patrik, Dang Van Lam, and Tran Trung Kien—are almost guaranteed spots in the 2026 ASEAN Championship, the real competition will be among 11 defenders. This mix includes experienced veterans like Do Duy Manh, Nguyen Thanh Chung, Bui Hoang Viet Anh, Pham Xuan Manh, Doan Van Hau, Truong Tien Anh, and Nguyen Van Vi, alongside promising young players such as Le Ngoc Bao, Nguyen Nhat Minh, Dinh Quang Kiet and Phan Tuan Tai.

Notably, experience no longer guarantees a starting position. Duy Manh is still recovering his form after injury, while Thanh Chung has not had a convincing season with Hanoi FC. If they fail to reach peak condition during the camp, the veteran center-back duo could be overtaken by young talents eager to prove themselves.

This reflects Coach Kim Sang-sik's distinct approach to building the team. Rather than relying on a fixed core, the Korean manager aims to create a competitive environment where every position must be earned through form and tactical suitability. This gives Vietnam greater squad depth and reduces dependence on a few individuals as in the past.

Besides refreshing personnel, Coach Kim Sang-sik is also focused on building a modern defense with players who are multi-functional. Xuan Manh can handle both right-back and right-sided center-back roles, while Van Hau beyond his role as left-back is also capable of playing as a left-sided center-back. Viet Anh can even be pushed forward to play as a defensive midfielder when the team needs to strengthen midfield battling.

Apart from defensive solidity, defenders are also expected to actively participate in ball progression and attacking support. On the left flank, Van Vi continues to show a knack for scoring goals in the national team under Coach Kim Sang-sik, while Tuan Tai stands out with accurate crossing ability. On the right flank, Tien Anh remains the player with the best crossing quality, contributing to a dangerous weapon from wing play and set pieces.

It is evident that Coach Kim Sang-sik's philosophy goes beyond building a solid defense; he aims for defenders who can initiate attacks, circulate the ball, and create surprises when needed. With competition growing increasingly fierce and no longer any safe zone for the veterans, the training camp in South Korea will be a crucial test to determine the optimal core for Vietnam's journey to defend their Southeast Asian throne at the 2026 ASEAN Championship.