Croatian 2008-born star open to playing for Vietnam U23, if...

In line with long-term squad preparation, Vietnam U23 continues to provide opportunities for young players, including Antonio Moric. According to coach Đinh Hồng Vinh, this is a chance for the player to showcase and prove his ability in a competitive environment.

On the afternoon of March 17, the Vietnam U23 national team commenced their first training session during the March 2026 training camp, aimed at preparing for participation in the CFA Team China International Football Tournament – Xi'an 2026.

In this training session, Vietnam U23 saw a personnel addition as the Vietnamese-origin forward Antonio Moric was "loaned" from the Vietnam U19 team to train with them.

Commenting on the player who is receiving significant attention, coach Đinh Hồng Vinh stated that Antonio Moric is not a surprise inclusion but has been part of the monitoring plan beforehand. This Vietnamese-origin player was promoted from the U19 team with the goal of testing and evaluating his capability in a more demanding professional environment.

"Moric is a Vietnamese-origin player who has been in our plans. However, the level at the U23 team is higher, so he needs more time to adapt and demonstrate himself," coach Đinh Hồng Vinh said.

He also emphasized that the coaching staff will create maximum conditions for Moric to integrate into the team's overall playing style. In the context of Vietnam U23 aiming for rejuvenation and expanding resources, Vietnamese-origin players like Antonio Moric are seen as potential supplementary options for the future.

Nevertheless, positions in the lineup will not be given preferential treatment. Coach Đinh Hồng Vinh affirmed that all players must compete fairly based on professional ability and adaptability. "If he meets the requirements, Moric fully has the opportunity to be part of the U23 squad," he added.

The act of providing an opportunity to Antonio Moric also aligns with the general direction of the Vietnam Football Federation, which actively seeks and trials Vietnamese-origin players to enhance the quality and depth of the national teams' squads in the coming period.