European Vietnamese player unexpectedly starts after a long absence

08/11/2025 22:47:00 ceshi

Following a lengthy absence, Damian Vũ Thanh An was unexpectedly included in the starting lineup by coach Popov for Thể Công Viettel in the 11th round of the V.League, signaling an unexpected return.

After a long period away, the name Damian Vũ Thanh Ansuddenly appeared in the starting eleven of Thể Công Viettel during round 11 of the 2025/26 V.League match against PVF - CAND, marking the first time the Polish-Vietnamese player started since joining the military club.

Damian Vũ Thanh An’s return surprised and intrigued fans, as he had nearly “disappeared” from all match rosters. After scoring just two minutes after entering the game against Công an TP.HCM in round 2, the midfielder born in 2003 was expected to become a fresh element in coach Popov’s tactics. However, since then, Damian did not get any playing time and was even excluded from the squad list for seven consecutive matches across all competitions.

an-68fef77ea3a2a — Damian Vũ Thanh An had been absent for quite a while in the V-League

Insider sources reveal that coach Popov wanted to give Damian time to adapt to the Vietnamese football environment, which features a different pace, pitch conditions, and playing style compared to Europe. The coaching staff’s patience was finally rewarded with an official starting opportunity in round 11, a crucial milestone for this young player’s development journey.

Damian Vũ Thanh An, who has both Vietnamese and Polish heritage, stands 1.83m tall and can play both as a midfielder and forward. Before returning to Vietnam, he developed at Olimpia Grudziądz, competed in Poland’s fourth division, and was loaned to Stal Brzeg. His training experience in Europe helped him build solid technical skills and tactical awareness, qualities that could make Damian a key asset if he capitalizes on this chance.

577909098_831662942948487_542272 — He made his first V-League start in round 11 (Photo: Club)

The match against PVF - CAND thus carried not only professional significance for Thể Công Viettel but also raised hopes for a “rebirth” of Damian, a player who made a strong impression during his V.League debut.

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