Endearing exchanges define naturalized striker Nguyen Xuan Son and wife’s romantic journey

Brazilian-born striker Nguyen Xuan Son (L) and his wife Marcele Seippel wearing ao dai (Vietnamese tunic). Photo from Son’s Facebook

On Seippel’s 26th birthday on Feb. 8, Son conveyed his heartfelt wishes: "Happy birthday to my love. Thank you for being a wonderful woman and standing by me through ups and downs."

"You are the gift God has given me in this life. I want to spend every second of it with you and our children," the 28-year-old striker continued. "I will always love you. You are my everything. Enjoy your day, my princess."

Son frequently makes public declarations of his love for Seippel. For example, in a comment on one of her social media posts, he wrote: "I will forever love you in this life. I will always love you, my love."

Before the first leg of the ASEAN Cup 2024 final on Jan. 1, Son unexpectedly proposed to his wife again. Seippel joyously accepted and subsequently shared a video of the moment on her Instagram

"I will always say yes to you, my love. I love you. Only we can truly understand each other’s chaos," Seippel captioned the post.

Seippel often reflects on her deep affection for Son, once posting a joyful picture with him and the caption: "I choose you every day of my life. You are the gift God gave me on Christmas in 2014."

"I am grateful for your presence and our marriage," she added. "May God continue to bless us, today and forever. I love you."

The couple started dating as teenagers in Brazil after meeting at a Christmas party at a friend’s house. Initially uninterested, Seippel warmed to Son after his persistent efforts, as Son consistently helped her bake and deliver goods after his training time.

They married in 2018 as Seippel began university. That year, she paused her studies to join Son in Japan at Vegalta Sendai. Despite a severe injury Son suffered, necessitating extensive recovery, Seippel managed their challenges, supporting him through rehabilitation.

Son later joined Næstved BK in Denmark after failing to meet professional standards in Japan. He netted four goals across 18 matches before the club was relegated.

In late 2019, Son relocated to Vietnam, marking a fresh chapter in his career. In the 2023-2024 season, Son set a V-League record as the highest goal scorer in a single season with 31 goals. His efforts led his club Nam Dinh to a V-League championship win.

Son also received the Top Scorer award, was selected for the season’s best team, and was named "Outstanding Player." He also received the award for the most beautiful goal of the tournament.

After gaining Vietnamese citizenship last year, Son was selected for the national team and played in the ASEAN Cup 2024, scoring seven goals in four games. However, he injured his leg in the final against Thailand on Jan. 5. Following surgery on Jan. 6, he is recuperating, hopeful to return to the field in about eight months.