One last time for coach Park: football agent

Lee told VnExpress: “Park has said many times that he will put all of his efforts into this year’s AFF Cup.”

Recently he told the South Korean media that after Vietnam lost to Thailand in the semifinals of the previous AFF Cup, his target is to reclaim the throne in Southeast Asia.

“With Park’s personality, I believe he will work hard even if there is only one day left. He also hopes that the players will give their all one last time. There is no question he will give his best in this final tournament,” Lee said.

On Monday Park announced he would not continue as the head coach of Vietnam national team when his contract expires on January 31 next year. Lee revealed the reasons behind Park’s decision to leave.

“Park thinks Vietnamese football needs something new. He’s not young anymore and he wants time for himself and his family. Everyone can see how much pressure there was on Park’s shoulder,” Lee said.

He said that Vietnam has brought Park plenty of success and he has a special connection with the players and the fans after years of working here. Therefore, it was not easy for him to make the decision.

“Park has considered this for months. Everything has a beginning and an end.”

The 65-year-old coach announced his decision to leave two months before the AFF Cup and Lee thinks it is the right time.

“Park believes announcing it at this time is good for the future of the team. If he waits until the end of the year, the players might get distracted. They might ask questions like why Park has not extended his contract and who the next coach will be. If that happens, the team can hardly succeed in the AFF Cup.

This is also good for the Vietnam Football Federation. They will have plenty of time to consider (his successor),” Lee added.

The 2022 AFF Cup will be played from December 23 to January 15.

Vietnam are in group B with Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar, and Laos, and teams will play two games at home and two away. Vietnam will play Malaysia and Myanmar at home.