By Trọng Vũ & Thanh Hà

Mai Đức Chung, after stepping down from his role as head coach of the national women's football team, has returned to a more normal life, supported by his family, who have always been a cornerstone in his illustrious career.

Despite announcing his retirement last December, Chung couldn't stay away from the sport that has defined much of his life. His career, closely linked with the national women's squad, has left a lasting legacy.

Months after his retirement, Chung was spotted in the stands at the National Women's Football Championship in Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu Province, carefully watching and taking notes, evaluating players for potential inclusion in his squad.

Back in action

Chung has helmed the women's team in three distinct periods: from 2003-05, 2014, and 2016-23. Under his guidance, Việt Nam secured six SEA Games gold medals, including a record four consecutive victories from 2017 to 2023. He also led the team to a fourth-place finish at the 2014 Asian Games and participated in the 2023 World Cup, marking the highest achievement in the history of Vietnamese football.

"Coach Chung is a special figure in women's football specifically and Vietnamese football in general," said pundit Nguyễn Quang Huy.

"He has amassed a remarkable collection of titles, establishing our position in the region and on the global stage. He discovered talented players, made many of them renowned, and set a standard process for young player recruitment."

Chung's departure was expected as he reached the age of 72, but it was still considered a significant loss for the national football community. His return has sparked excitement and anticipation across the board.

"I hesitated a lot about this decision," Chung admitted. "Many people wanted me to come back, but others advised me to retire completely after announcing my retirement. I understand people's criticism for my back-and-forth decisions. I don't blame them; I struggled to make up my mind as well. Now that I've decided to come back, I'll give my best and do everything I can for the development of Vietnamese women's football."

Chung revealed that his wife and sons initially opposed his return to elite football, concerned about the stress and pressure that could impact his health.

"But my passion for football is still strong, and I can't bear to leave the team when it needs support. The Việt Nam Football Federation (VFF) leaders also urged me to return after struggling to find a suitable replacement," he said.

"So, I agreed. There must be someone willing to make sacrifices for the greater good, and I'll be that person."

Chung was warmly welcomed by officials, players, and supporters in Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu, which he described as a strong motivation for his fourth contract. He acknowledged that his current salary and allowances were not as attractive as they once were, but emphasised that he worked not for money or personal fame, but for the stature of the nation's football.

Under his new contract, valid until the end of 2025, Chung will select players for an upcoming training course, a critical step ahead of a busy schedule next year.

"I was overwhelmed after years of intense work, but after a six-month break, I feel re-energized and ready to lead the team as the new head coach," he said.

"I might fail and not achieve the expected results, but I'm not afraid of losing my reputation or facing difficulties."

Chung observed significant changes in women's football, noting the influx of young players as teams undergo a rejuvenation process.

"I will gradually rejuvenate the team, blending the strength of younger players with the experience of veterans. Anyone who can and wants to contribute will be given opportunities," he said.

While there are no international competitions this year, 2025 will see the team participate in the Southeast Asian Championship, the 33rd SEA Games, and the Asian Cup qualifiers.

"Our main rivals will be Thailand and the Philippines. The Thais have been preparing for the SEA Games on their home ground for two to three years, while the Filipinos have bolstered their squad with naturalised players. These two will be the teams to beat on our path to the top," Chung said.

The 73-year-old also aims to develop female coaches, preparing them to eventually take over the national team.

"I've identified a few promising candidates who were talented players in the past, but coaching is a different challenge. They have potential but need further development. I want them to work harder, be braver, and know how to unite players and maximise their potential," he said.  VNS