Coach Kim Sang Sik and his agent Lee Dong Jun recently gave an interview on YouTube channel BAgent (South Korea). During this conversation, he shared interesting insights about his journey leading the Vietnamese national team.
Coach Kim Sang Sik expresses relief after helping Vietnam win the 2024 AFF Cup (Photo: Duong Huong).
Unforgettable Emotions After Winning the 2024 AFF Cup
Coach Kim Sang Sik, born in 1976, shares that he still vividly remembers the joy of winning with the Vietnamese national team. He says, “I am incredibly happy. It’s an indescribable feeling of elation. The final moments against Thailand were extremely tense. Everything erupted when the final whistle blew. I felt a sense of peace after those stressful days. I started crying. After the victory, I received many congratulations from friends and my agent.”
Journey Leading the Vietnamese National Team
Regarding his decision to become the head coach of the Vietnamese national team, he explains, “I am very happy to take on this role. Thanks to the connections made by my agent Lee Dong Jun and the advice from Coach Park Hang Seo, I decided to give it a try. I feel a huge responsibility in carrying forward Coach Park Hang Seo’s legacy. I constantly strive to make the team stronger and guide them towards success.”
Coach Kim Sang Sik also shares his experience integrating into the team: “There were things I planned for beforehand, but there were also unexpected challenges. However, I tried to integrate and build closer relationships with the players and fans. Along the way, I worked on overcoming shortcomings. I received valuable advice from Coach Park Hang Seo and local assistants to better understand the culture and players.”
Coach Kim Sang Sik admits wanting Son Heung Min on Vietnam’s team (Photo: Getty).
Leadership and Coaching Techniques
Coach Kim Sang Sik reveals his leadership approach: “I always believe that before teaching or pushing anyone too hard, you should first make them laugh and feel comfortable. As the head coach and football educator, coaching players is part of my job. But instead of approaching them in a rigid manner, I aim to be close and bring happiness to them. That’s my personal belief.”
Potential of Vietnamese Players in K-League
When asked about the prospects of Vietnamese players competing in South Korea’s K-League, he comments, “There are many promising players in Vietnam, but they need further development to compete in the K-League. Vietnamese players aren’t just there to learn; they need to prove their abilities and secure starting positions. They must demonstrate that they can play as regulars in any K-League club. To achieve that, they need to improve their skills and adapt to the league. Only then can Vietnamese players hope to succeed in Korea.”
Desire to Have Son Heung Min on the Team
Coach Kim Sang Sik also expresses his wish: “If I could choose one player, I would want Son Heung Min. We would enjoy Vietnamese pho together. Son Heung Min would greatly benefit the Vietnamese players.”
Through Coach Kim Sang Sik’s insights, it’s clear that he is not only a talented coach but also someone who brings joy and unity to the Vietnamese national team.
