Indonesian media expressed surprise that a former English Premier League star has joined the Vietnam national team.

Indonesian media announced that the Vietnam national team has reinforced its coaching staff with an ex-English Premier League player before the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

Recently, Indonesian media widely covered the arrival of a notable figure in the Vietnam national team's coaching staff, as head coach Kim Sang-sik is believed to have added a former English Premier League player to his assistant coaching team on the eve of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

According to Super Ball, the individual in question is Kim Do-heon, a former South Korean international. After finishing his coaching role at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, he officially joined the Vietnam national team's coaching staff to directly support head coach Kim Sang-sik in the campaign to retain the regional title.

During his playing career, Kim Do-heon is a highly experienced figure in South Korean football. He earned 62 caps for the national team, scoring 12 goals, and took part in several major continental tournaments. Notably, he also played in Europe, including a stint at West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League, thereby gaining experience at the highest level.

Beyond his playing days, Kim Do-heon is highly valued for his tactical acumen after moving into coaching. Before arriving in Vietnam, he worked with clubs like Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors and Chengdu Rongcheng, and even served as head coach at Jeonbuk during 2024.

Regional media view Kim Do-heon's arrival as a significant upgrade for the Vietnam national team's coaching staff. With his extensive international experience, especially his time in the English Premier League, he is expected to offer fresh tactical insights and assist head coach Kim Sang-sik in squad preparation.

As the 2026 ASEAN Cup approaches, the Vietnam national team's continuous addition of quality personnel, both in players and coaching staff, reflects a strong resolve to defend the championship. This is also why news about the Vietnam national team continues to draw special attention from regional media, including Indonesia.