Goalkeeper Trung Kiên: 'I hope to have the chance to go to Japan to learn and gain experience'

Goalkeeper Trần Trung Kiên opened up sincerely following the 2026 AFC U23 Championship journey alongside the Vietnam U23 team.

Trung Kiên did not hide his ambition to play abroad, with Japan being the destination he especially wishes for if the right opportunity arises after his impact at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.

In an interview with Tuổi Trẻ Online, Trung Kiên said that for now he will focus on returning to Hoàng Anh Gia Lai club to complete the season’s objectives. At the same time, the 2003-born goalkeeper is determined to strive for a spot on the Vietnam national team, aiming to avenge the previous defeat to Malaysia in the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. “For now, I will concentrate on performing well for my club. Looking further ahead, I will try to earn a place in the Vietnam national team and ‘take revenge’ on Malaysia after the first-leg loss,” Trung Kiên expressed.

Regarding the possibility of playing abroad, Trung Kiên admitted he has heard rumors about interest from Japanese clubs, but so far these remain just rumors. “Before SEA Games 33, I only saw information online, nothing official. After the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, I just returned and have not received any specific notice from the club’s management,” he shared.

Nevertheless, the desire to play in Japan has always been present in the Vietnam U23 goalkeeper’s mind. “Although nothing is certain yet, I still hope to have the chance to go to Japan to learn and compete. Japan’s football is among the best in Asia, and the environment there would help me improve a lot,” Trung Kiên said.

Reflecting on the unsuccessful overseas attempts by many Vietnamese players, including goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm who once went to Japan, Trung Kiên said he has mentally prepared for the challenges. “I understand that going to Japan means focusing on improving my skills and match awareness. Even if I don’t get much playing time, I can still learn a great deal,” he frankly stated.

According to Trung Kiên, going abroad means accepting trade-offs. “Everyone wants to play regularly when going abroad, but that’s not guaranteed. If I decide to go, I’m ready to sacrifice a few years to change myself, learn more, and mature faster by stepping out of my comfort zone,” the Hoàng Anh Gia Lai goalkeeper emphasized.

Looking back at his journey at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship, Trung Kiên believes the setbacks have made him stronger.“After the recent tournament, I feel I have changed a lot. The incident in the loss against China U23 was a big lesson that helped me grow. Currently, I am very eager to play,” Trung Kiên concluded.