The Vietnam national team has a 'new version' after the Lunar New Year of the Year of the Horse.

The U23 squad has developed impressively, the Vietnamese diaspora players have established their roles, and especially the influx of many skilled naturalized foreign players is set to bring major changes to the Vietnam national team’s lineup. The year 2026 promises to see the toughest contest to date, launching a full-fledged version of the "Golden Star Warriors."

Never before has the Vietnam national team had such abundant resources. This means there is no room for complacency. In the goalkeeper position, the competition heats up daily. Besides Đặng Văn Lâm, Nguyễn Filip, and Đình Triệu, the arrival of Patrik Lê Giang, after obtaining Vietnamese citizenship, makes the number one spot unpredictable. Coach Kim Sang Sik also has the option of Trần Trung Kiên, who is ready to challenge the veterans.

The defense line of the Vietnam national team also promises to be strengthened. Naturalized center-back Đỗ Phi Long (Gustavo), standing at 1.95m tall, significantly improves the team's aerial defense. If Janclesio, who is over 1.9m tall, completes his citizenship formalities in 2026, the average height of the defense will surge, making them competitive at the continental level.

The emergence of new players also directly pressures the previous key members like Thành Chung, Duy Mạnh, Thanh Bình, Bùi Tiến Dũng, Việt Anh, and Đình Trọng. There is no longer a guaranteed starting spot; every position must be earned through performance.

On the two wings, the competition is even more intense. On the right side, Hồ Tấn Tài’s strong comeback with Becamex TP.HCM (highlighted by an impressive goal in round 13) gives the team an additional dynamic attacking option. Meanwhile, Trương Tiến Anh, Xuân Mạnh, and Minh Phúc are all ready to compete fairly.