Star midfielder focuses on national duty amid future rumors

By Quang Huy March 17, 2022 | 04:44 am PT

Nguyen Quang Hai (R) reacts after scoring for Hanoi FC in the V. League game with Thanh Hoa on March 16, 2022. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai refused to talk about his future, saying he wants to concentrate on upcoming World Cup qualifiers with the national team.

The 25-year-old midfield star scored the only goal that helped Hanoi FC win against Thanh Hoa FC in V. League on Wednesday night.

"I was really happy that I scored and helped Hanoi claim three points. My next priority is to train well with the national team two prepare for the next two World Cup qualifiers. I didn't think any further," Hai said after the match.

The future of Hai is currently the hottest topic among the Vietnamese football community. His contract with Hanoi FC will expire on April 12 and the two sides haven't found common grounds for extension.

He wants to play football in Europe and has requested the club to let him go there on loan starting June. However, Hanoi wants more time to consider Hai's offer.

Switzerland is likely to be his destination though many clubs from South Korea, Japan and Latvia have also made offers for him.In the Wednesday game, Hai started from the bench in the second half. Despite just having recovered from an injury, he still proved his worth with a quick finish after a corner.

After the game, Hai will gather with the national team to prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Oman on March 24 and Japan five days later.