Transfer Profile: Nguyễn Công Phượng

Incheon United have filled their Asian player quota with 24-year-old forward Vietnamese international Nguyễn Công Phượng. The forward comes on a one year loan from V.League side HAGL and should feature up top next to the newly re-signed Stefan Mugoša. To get some more insight on the type of player K League fans can expect to see this season, we spoke with Viet Footy about the striker.   
(image via Tin tức Viet Nam)


How was Nguyễn Công Phượng viewed at HAGL? League wide?

He was beloved as part of the core that ushered in the "Golden Generation" with this teammates Lương Xuân Trường and Nguyễn Tuấn Anh for the U19 national team. He's won the national "Favorite Player" award for the past two years, so that tells you how beloved he is in Vietnam.

Strongest aspects of his game?

He can run for days. Fast on and off the ball. I think that's why he's perfect in manager Park Hang-seo's offensive system.

Weaknesses?

Penalties have been a big issue in his career. He's also an opportunistic goal scorer, but has had some difficulty finishing of late, which have drawn comparisons to Chicharito Hernandez. 

Reason for leaving?

With the AFF Suzuki Cup and Asian Cup runs, it was expected for him and other players to make moves abroad. It would have looked like a failure if he was still in V.League for the 2019 season. Through the connection of national team manager Park Hang-seo, K League was on most people's minds for a landing spot for him and his national team colleagues.

Where do you think he would be best utilized with Incheon?

I think his best position is tucked behind the center forward to make runs up the midfield. He shouldn't be leaned on as the main scoring threat for the team though.

What should K League fans expect from him?

He's fun to watch. He's a humble guy. From what I've read about his time in Japan, he's great when it comes to interacting with fans as well.

Best moment in V.League (or the National Team)? 

I can't think of an individual moment but his performance in the AFC U23 Championship run in 2018 was great.