Nguyen Trong Dai is seeking work after a difficult period in his football career. A September 6 Facebook post from the 29-year-old midfielder drew renewed attention to a player who once held an important place in Vietnam's youth teams.

Trong Dai developed at Viettel, reached the first team at 18 and captained Vietnam's U19 side during the campaign that secured qualification for the 2017 U20 World Cup. His standing later declined. Injuries, discipline concerns and inconsistent form prevented his club and international career from following its early promise.

After spells with Ha Tinh, Nam Dinh and Hai Phong, he spent time at Long An. Changes at the club, an ankle injury and his mother's illness added further pressure. Speaking to VnExpress, Trong Dai acknowledged that poor decisions and problems away from the pitch had affected his ability to focus on football.

For now, he hopes to play in amateur competitions, develop online sales activity and find another way to remain involved in the sport. Several fellow players have offered encouragement. These plans mark a beginning he has made public; rebuilding a stable career and livelihood will require time and concrete action.