Vietnam Football Weekly: Market Awaits New Momentum from International Transfer Window

Vietnamese football market enters the mid-season phase with mixed signals. While V.League 1 is taking a short break between phases, transfer activity has become the focus of observers. The performance of Vietnamese representatives at continental competitions is also being closely evaluated as AFC Champions League and AFC Cup enter a crucial phase. According to data compiled by VuaBong.vn, as of mid-August 2026, the total transfer value of V.League 1 clubs in the mid-season transfer window reached an estimated 12.5 billion VND, down 18% year-on-year. This decline reflects a general cautious trend among clubs amid financial pressure and squad restructuring after the first phase of the season. One of the most notable points is the form of Cong An Ha Noi in V.League 1 2026-2026. The capital club is leading the standings with 38 points after 16 rounds, five points ahead of second place. However, their home form — traditionally a strong point — shows signs of instability compared to last season, earning only 10 points from their last 8 home matches versus the previous average of 1.48 points per match. This is a signal that warrants close monitoring, as history shows drops in home advantage often precede major ranking fluctuations. Additionally, the story of Vietnamese diaspora players returning to domestic football is receiving special attention. Players like Nguyen Hai Long (returning from Japan's second division) and several young players currently playing in South Korea are being monitored by multiple V.League clubs. However, negotiations often face obstacles due to gaps in salary expectations and contract terms — a familiar reality in Southeast Asian transfer markets. From a tactical perspective, the mid-season break is when coaches typically implement system adjustments. Based on my observations across multiple seasons, the biggest tactical changes typically occur during this period, especially for teams struggling with attack-defense balance. Some coaches have quietly experimented with three-at-the-back formations in practice matches, though no official announcements have been made. Another notable point is the situation of young Vietnamese players playing abroad. As K.League and J.League increasingly focus on the Southeast Asian market, opportunities for Vietnamese players to compete professionally in South Korea or Japan are growing. However, the biggest challenge lies not in technical ability but in adapting to the training intensity and psychological pressure of top-tier professional football environments. Financially, the revenue story of Vietnamese clubs remains an unsolved equation. With a model heavily dependent on sponsorship and owner funding, the sustainability of the V.League system still raises many questions. Competition for sponsorship sources is intensifying, while broadcasting revenue remains modest compared to regional leagues. Looking ahead, Vietnamese football is at a crucial transition point. The combination of youth talent development strategy, expanded international cooperation, and governance reform will determine the direction of Vietnamese football in the coming years. Most importantly, decisions during this period must be based on data and long-term strategy rather than short-term results — a temptation that Vietnamese football has never fully escaped.