Vietnamese player in Top 60 global prospects voted by The Guardian

Young striker Tran Gia Bao. (Photo: VFF)

In an article written by veteran journalist John Duerden, Tran Gia Bao was described as a “bright gem gradually shining in the heart of Vietnamese football”. The player born in 2008 set a historical milestone when he became the youngest player to ever play and score in V-League 1 in the 2024-2025 season, at the age of 16.

Before that, Gia Bao had already attracted attention at youth levels thanks to his technical playing style, sharp tactical thinking and confidence rarely seen in a teenager. He was considered a versatile attacking player, able to play in many positions from attacking midfielder, winger to center forward.

At the 2025 U17 Asian Cup, Gia Bao continued to leave his mark when he scored against U17 Japan in a 1-1 draw, demonstrating his mettle against a strong opponent. Previously, he also helped the U16 Vietnam team defeat U16 Uzbekistan 3-0 and U17 Japan 1-0 at the U16 CFA Team China 2024 tournament.

The fact that Tran Gia Bao was selected by The Guardian to be on the “Next Generation 2025” list is a testament to the international recognition of the development potential of Vietnamese youth football. This is the first time in many years that Vietnamese football has a representative on this list, which has honored the world’s top stars such as Haaland, Vinicius Jr, Musiala, Gavi...

Not only is this title a source of personal pride, it also demonstrates the right investment direction in youth training of Hoang Anh Gia Lai Academy and Vietnamese football in general. From a hidden talent, Tran Gia Bao is expected to become a new symbol for the generation of Vietnamese players full of ambition and courage on the journey to conquer the peak of the continent and the world.

PHAN THACH

Source: https://nhandan.vn/cau-thu-viet-nam-lot-top-60-tai-nang-trien-vong-toan-cau-do-the-guardian-binh-chon-post915542.html