V.League and the story of 'the slow ox drinks muddy water'

The 2023/2024 V.League season has concluded with many emotions and changes. Long-standing teams like SLNA and HAGL successfully avoided relegation, bringing joy and hope to their fans.

Meanwhile, some teams like Hanoi, Nam Dinh, and Binh Duong have begun rushing to retain their best players in preparation for the next season. However, the "slow ox drinks muddy water" mentality in signing and recruiting new players is becoming a major concern for teams with limited financial resources like SLNA and Thanh Hoa.

In any league, the player transfer market is always a fierce race before each new season begins. The team that acts quickly and has the money has the advantage. Signing early not only helps teams acquire quality players but also gives them the opportunity to integrate into their new team, adapting to the coach's tactics and playing style. Conversely, teams that are slow to act often have to accept the remaining players, usually those who are not highly valued by other teams or whose transfer value exceeds the team's budget.

Delayed signings not only lead to missed opportunities to acquire quality players but also have other negative consequences. Firstly, players who haven't signed often have to find new clubs under pressure, with limited options and a higher risk of being forced to pay inflated prices. Secondly, delays in signing new players also affect preparations for the upcoming season.

New players need time to get to know their teammates, understand the coach's tactics, and adapt to the new environment. Without enough time, they are unlikely to reach their best form when the season begins.

There are many reasons why football teams are slow to sign new players. Part of the reason is the complex and lengthy selection process, from player evaluation and contract negotiations to completing the transfer procedures. In addition, financial factors also play a significant role. Many teams face financial difficulties, lacking the resources to pay for top players upfront. They are forced to wait until the end of the transfer window to negotiate lower prices or seek out free agents.

While some teams struggle with signing players, others have demonstrated professionalism and shrewdness in this area. They not only sign players early but also know how to utilize the time effectively to help new players integrate well into the team. For example, Hanoi FC, a team consistently in the top ranks of the V.League, is always proactive in signing and recruiting players. As a result, they not only possess quality players but also have stability and cohesion within their squad.

To avoid being the slow ox that drinks muddy water, football teams need to change their approach and management in signing and selecting players. First, they need a clear and long-term strategy. Anticipating needs and planning early helps them be more proactive in the transfer market. In addition, adequate financial investment is needed to be competitive with other teams. Finally, building a professional scouting team capable of accurately identifying and evaluating player talent is also crucial.

The "slow ox drinks muddy water" phenomenon in the signing and selection of new players in the V.League is not a new issue, but it remains a pressing one that needs to be addressed.

To compete and develop sustainably, football teams need to be more proactive, flexible, and professional in all aspects of team management and operation. Only then can they avoid being caught in the mud and acquire quality players, helping the team achieve the expected success in subsequent seasons.