What is the truth about the news that Vietnam's key midfielder is joining Ninh Binh FC?

According to multiple credible sources, Doãn Ngọc Tân is expected to stay with Thanh Hóa rather than transfer to Ninh Binh FC.

The Vietnamese football fan community has been buzzing recently over rumors that midfielder Doãn Ngọc Tân – a vital player for Vietnam’s national team at the AFF Cup 2024 – might leave Đông Á Thanh Hóa. These rumors surfaced amid the club’s current struggles with its squad, making the future of the 1994-born captain a hot topic across forums and social media.

The story began on the morning of February 22 when defender Trịnh Văn Lợi posted on his personal page: “Without our captain, how can we play?” This comment immediately drew attention and sparked speculation that Doãn Ngọc Tân might be leaving Thanh Hóa. Many fans quickly connected this to the defensive midfielder’s captaincy role, fueling lively debates.

Beyond personal speculation, a fan-managed V-League club page with over 77,000 followers posted that Doãn Ngọc Tân might join Ninh Binh FC, presumably to replace Nguyễn Thái Sơn, who recently underwent knee ligament surgery. This information spread rapidly, making the rumor go viral.

However, confirmed sources indicate that it is unlikely Doãn Ngọc Tân will leave Thanh Hóa at this time. He remains registered with the Thanh Hóa club and has made no official moves regarding any transfer. His recent absence from match lineups is primarily due to health issues, not concerns about his playing future.

Insider information suggests that Doãn Ngọc Tân will likely miss the rescheduled match between Thanh Hóa and Công An Hà Nội at 6 PM on February 24 at Thanh Hóa stadium. Coach Mai Xuân Hợp confirmed that the captain cannot play due to a viral fever. Given the team’s current shortage of players, Ngọc Tân’s absence significantly impacts midfield strength and point-scoring potential.

Despite personnel challenges, Thanh Hóa showed strong fighting spirit by drawing 2-2 with Nam Định before defeating CA TP.HCM 2-1. This highlights Doãn Ngọc Tân’s important role, especially as an experienced defensive midfielder who contributed greatly to Vietnam’s AFF Cup 2024 victory. At present, transfer talk remains only rumor while fans await the recovery of this “midfield anchor” to return and maintain Thanh Hóa’s midfield rhythm.

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