Lê Huỳnh Đức, Vietnamese footballer, coach, and manager

Lê Huỳnh Đức, born on April 20, 1972, in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, stands as a truly iconic figure in Vietnamese football. His remarkable career spans both the pitch, where he shone as a prolific striker, and the dugout, where he has carved out a reputation as a highly successful and influential manager. Regarded by many as one of Vietnam's greatest ever footballers, Huỳnh Đức's journey is a testament to dedication and pioneering spirit.

A Legendary Playing Career

As a player, Lê Huỳnh Đức was an undeniable force, known for his exceptional goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field. He was a cornerstone of the Vietnam national football team, representing his country with immense pride. During his distinguished international career, he amassed an impressive 60 caps, a national record that underscores his enduring presence and significance in Vietnamese football history. Beyond just appearances, he also held the esteemed title of the national team's all-time top scorer, a testament to his consistent ability to find the back of the net in crucial moments.

Huỳnh Đức's influence wasn't confined to domestic success; he also broke significant ground for Vietnamese football on the international stage. In a landmark move that captured the nation's attention, he became the first Vietnamese footballer ever to sign with a club outside of Vietnam. This historic transfer saw him embark on a year-long stint with Chongqing Lifan in China, a pioneering step that opened doors and inspired future generations of Vietnamese players to pursue opportunities abroad. This venture into the then-Chinese Jia-A League (predecessor to the Chinese Super League) highlighted his talent and ambition, placing Vietnamese football on a broader regional map.

Transition to Management and Coaching Success

Following a stellar playing career, Lê Huỳnh Đức transitioned seamlessly into football management, bringing his wealth of experience and a distinct philosophy to the touchline. His coaching tenure quickly garnered attention, particularly with SHB Đà Nẵng, a prominent club in the V-League, Vietnam's top-tier professional football league. He currently coaches the club, continuing his deep association with Vietnamese football.

It was in 2009 that Huỳnh Đức truly made his mark as a coach, demonstrating an immediate impact and setting new benchmarks. He earned the distinction of becoming the youngest coach ever to win the V-League's "Best Coach of the Month" award, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his tactical acumen and leadership qualities at a relatively early stage in his managerial career. Even more impressively, he went on to become the first coach in V-League history to win this prestigious award in three consecutive months, cementing his status as a rising star in Vietnamese coaching.

His coaching philosophy is widely recognized for its emphasis on toughness and discipline. This rigorous approach, which instilled a strong work ethic and tactical adherence within his squads, proved to be incredibly effective. It is widely credited as a key factor in guiding SHB Đà Nẵng to emerge as champions in the highly competitive 2009 V-League season. Under his disciplined guidance, the team not only achieved domestic glory but also established a formidable reputation for their resilience and strategic play.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lê Huỳnh Đức

When and where was Lê Huỳnh Đức born?

Lê Huỳnh Đức was born on April 20, 1972, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a vibrant economic and cultural hub.

What is his current role in football?

He is currently a football manager, coaching SHB Đà Nẵng of the V-League, Vietnam's premier professional football league.

What national records does he hold as a player?

As a former member of the Vietnam national football team, Lê Huỳnh Đức holds the national record for the most international caps (60 appearances) and was also the team's all-time top scorer.

Was he the first Vietnamese player to play abroad?

Yes, he made history by becoming the first Vietnamese footballer to be signed by a foreign club, playing for Chongqing Lifan in China for a year.

What are his notable achievements as a coach?

In 2009, he became the youngest coach to win the V-League's "Best Coach of the Month" award and was the first to win it for three consecutive months. He also led SHB Đà Nẵng to win the 2009 V-League championship.

What is Lê Huỳnh Đức's coaching style known for?

His coaching style is best known for its emphasis on toughness and discipline, which has been highly effective in achieving success, notably with SHB Đà Nẵng.