Coach Park Hang-seo: 'I apologize to Vietnamese fans'

"First of all, I would like to congratulate the Thai team and Mr. Polking on winning the AFF Cup 2022 championship. Today, I wanted to win as a gift for the fans but I couldn't do it, I apologize. The result was not as expected because of my lack of ability. The players tried their best, especially playing away. I hope the fans continue to support them instead of criticizing them,"Coach Park Hang-seoopened the press conference after the second leg of the final lost 0-1 to Thailand.

In response to a reporter's question about whether the Vietnamese team can beat Thailand after Park Hang-seo leaves, the Korean strategist replied: "I cannot answer this question, it must be left to the next coach. I think Vietnamese football will continue to develop. Now I am no longer the head coach, from now on I am a fan, enthusiastically cheering for the Vietnamese team and U23 Vietnam. I hope we keep the memories forever."

Coach Park Hang-seo thinks his ability is still limited. Photo by Hai Hoang

"Over the past five years, I have been greatly encouraged and cheered on. I think I am still a coach with many shortcomings, always trying my best in every match. The regret is that I am no longer with the players. We have experienced many joys and sorrows together. Not being with my players anymore makes me very sad," Mr. Park emotionally confided.

"My personality is not to think much about other things when I'm doing a job. But now, the tournament has ended and the contract has also closed. I will discuss more with the company and family to make a decision. And wherever I am, I will only do football," said Coach Park about his future plans.

Regarding his most memorable memory while working in Vietnam, Coach Park said: "After I left the team and was no longer with the players, the most memorable memory was the moments I played with the players in the team's medical room."

Coach Park Hang Seo admitted that he blamed himself for not being able to beat Thailand and dedicated the championship trophy to the fans on the day he said goodbye to the Vietnamese team.

There are two streams of thoughts in my head: remembering the good memories and regret. I blame myself for not being able to win the championship. I don't know what I'm missing. Breaking up is when we have to change many things. When we break up, we have to endure the pain. I want to comfort those I've hurt. I know I'm lacking, but what can I do? If there is pain, I have to cry for it. No matter what, I still have to continue," Coach Park shared.