Coach Kim Sang Sik receives disappointing news about the highly anticipated striker

The meniscus tear injury requires Công Phượng to miss a minimum of two months, nearly closing the door for his selection by Coach Kim Sang Sik to the Vietnam national squad in the upcoming period.

Unfavorable news has just been delivered to the Vietnam national team’s coaching staff when Nguyễn Công Phượng suffers another serious injury while playing for Trường Tươi Đồng Nai. The striker born in 1995 has been diagnosed with a lateral meniscus tear, expected to be out for at least 8 weeks, possibly longer if surgery is needed. This significantly disrupts Kim Sang Sik’s personnel plans.

In this year’s National First Division season, Công Phượng was considered Đồng Nai’s most promising player aiming for a high ranking. However, persistent injuries have caused him to miss many matches.

It was not until Round 8, held on January 31, that the Nghệ An-born striker returned to the pitch after a long recovery. In the match against Khánh Hòa, Công Phượng quickly made an impact by directly contributing to his team’s goal, showing his ability to create breakthroughs remains strong.

However, that joy was short-lived. Right after the first half, Công Phượng had to leave the field due to a knee injury relapse. The following medical examination brought bad news to both the club and the national team. The diagnosis revealed a complex lateral meniscus tear, requiring a lengthy recovery and careful monitoring.

Comments after the 1-1 draw against PVF-CAND youth team in Round 9, Coach Nguyễn Việt Thắng stated: “According to the doctor’s assessment, Phượng will have to rest for at least around 8 weeks. If surgery is needed, the recovery period will be even longer.”

The coach also expressed regret that Công Phượng faced misfortune immediately after his comeback, especially as he is a player with a professional attitude and a strong desire to contribute.

For the Vietnam national team, Công Phượng’s injury is unwelcome news as Coach Kim Sang Sik seeks experienced attacking options capable of making a difference. Previously, the 1995-born striker was regarded as one of the players who could add depth to the frontline, especially in matches demanding composure and individual brilliance.

The extended absence from play makes Công Phượng’s participation in upcoming Vietnam national team camps highly unlikely. Once again, injury becomes the biggest obstacle in the journey back to the national team for the striker once considered one of Vietnamese football’s greatest hopes.