The completion of Le Giang’s naturalisation is part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to enhance professional quality and pursue key long-term objectives for national football development.

The proposal was submitted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism following a comprehensive assessment of the overseas Vietnamese goalkeeper’s professional ability, international experience and consistent form in recent professional seasons.

Le Giang developed in Europe and played in Slovakia before returning to Vietnam in 2023, when he joined Ho Chi Minh City FC. He later moved to Ho Chi Minh City Police FC, where he has established himself as a first-choice goalkeeper.

If given an opportunity by head coach Kim Sang-sik in upcoming FIFA international windows, Le Giang is expected to increase competition for the goalkeeper position in the national team.

Vietnam currently boast a strong group of goalkeepers, including Nguyen Filip, Dang Van Lam and Nguyen Dinh Trieu, along with promising young talents such as Tran Trung Kien, Cao Van Binh and Pham Dinh Hai.

At the recent Vietnam Golden Ball Awards, Patrik Le Giang finished in the Top Three for the “Best Foreign Player” category, underlining his consistent performances and professionalism throughout a challenging season.

With Vietnamese citizenship now secured, the 34-year-old goalkeeper is eligible for selection to the national team and could be called up for Vietnam’s final Group F match in the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against Malaysia on March 31 at Thien Truong Stadium in Ninh Binh.

Vietnam edge Kuwait 5-4 in AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 opener

VOV.VN - Vietnam came from behind to edge Kuwait 5-4 in a dramatic Group B opener at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 on January 27, securing a winning start to their continental campaign.