Philippe Troussier, the French coach who stepped down from his position as the manager of the Vietnamese men’s national football team last week, shared his reflections on leading the squad in a letter posted to his personal Facebook account on Thursday evening.

The letter was uploaded shortly after the 69-year-old coach returned to France.

“My dears,” Troussier wrote, “I am speaking to you today with gratitude and humility as I reflect on my tenure as the Head Coach of the Vietnam National Football Team.”

“As I step down from my role, while our journey has been marked by setbacks and challenges, I remain steadfast in my belief in the potential of Vietnam football and the resilience of all the players. 

“After more than one year working day-to-day with them on the pitch, I have never failed to be amazed by the collective discipline and spirit of the group.

“From day one until the last minute, their tireless efforts have become the backbone of the team, and I am profoundly grateful for the privilege of working alongside such talented individuals. 

“I strongly believe that retaining such Never Give Up morale is key to any future collective success. 

“I wish them all the best of health, to remain injuries-free and keep their competitive form to the highest standard.”

Troussier proceeded to express his gratitude by acknowledging and mentioning the name of each member of the coaching staff, including Vietnamese assistants Nguyen Viet Thang and Truong Dinh Luat, as well as the team’s logistics staff and the medical crew, including Tuan Nguyen Giap and Tran Huy Tho.

He also extended his appreciation to the dedicated assistance provided by the staff of the national team department and the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF)’s media department, such as Doan Anh Tuan and Ha Nhat Doan.

“Throughout our journey, it is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the recent disappoinments we faced in the World Cup Qualifiers,” Troussier continued. 

“As the leader of the team, I bear the weight of these results, and I extend my acceptance of responsibilities to all.

“To the passionate supporters of Vietnam football, I offer my most sincere gratitude and apologies.

“Your unwavering enthusiasm have been a source of inspiration for the team, and I am deeply humbled by your encouragements even in the time of displeasure.”

In closing, he extended his “warmest regards and best wishes to all who have been a part of this journey.”

“It has been an honor and a privilege for myself, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to serve the nation of Vietnam,” Troussier stated.

Troussier departed Vietnam on Wednesday evening, one week after he and the VFF mutually agreed to prematurely terminate his three-year coaching contract for the Vietnamese U23 and national teams.

Throughout his year with the Vietnamese national team, from March 1, 2023 to March 26, 2024, Troussier managed 14 matches, securing four wins and suffering 10 losses. 

These losses included defeats against lower-rated opponents and setbacks that hindered their progression to subsequent tournament rounds and tournament championships.

During that period, the team also plummeted from 94th to 115th in the FIFA world rankings, marking its lowest position in years.

VFF officially announced Hoang Anh Tuan as the coach for the U23 team on Thursday and is currently in search of Troussier’s successor at the national team, with a preference for a foreign coach. 

VFF aims to unveil the new coach in June, according to vice-president Tran Anh Tu. 

However, if a suitable foreign candidate has yet to arise by that time, the football watchdog will appoint an interim manager.

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