Patrik Le Giang, 34, born in Lucenec, Banska Bystrica region, Slovakia, recently became a Vietnamese citizen and joined the national football team. In the ASEAN Cup 2026 group stage, he conceded only one goal during Vietnam's 3-1 victory against Cambodia, helping the team secure first place in their group. He is the second child in a family with a Vietnamese-born father, a civil servant, and a mother who is a university lecturer. Before returning to his father's homeland, Vietnam, Patrik played for Slovakia's U17 to U21 teams and for Bohemians 1905 Club in the Czech Republic.

From childhood, Vietnam was always present in Patrik's life through family meals, traditional customs, and strong educational values instilled by his father. In the 1990s, when telecommunication fees were expensive, Patrik and his brother wrote letters monthly for their father to translate into Vietnamese and send to their paternal grandparents in Phu Xuyen, Hanoi. During Tet holidays, despite his busy schedule, Mr. Le Giang Nam, 64, always woke up early to prepare traditional dishes for ancestral offerings. He invited friends to their home, shared stories about Tet, and taught his children about Vietnamese traditions. However, he never forced his children to choose a nationality or actively taught them Vietnamese, believing they would find their own way back when the time was right.

Patrik's distinct appearance often led to teasing from friends as a child, but this experience made him more aware of his origins. In 2023, following his father's suggestion, Patrik made the significant decision to leave Europe to play football in Vietnam. "Not just to play football, I want to build a new life, understand my roots more, and create something meaningful," he said, explaining his motivation.

Goalkeeper Patrik with his father, at a stadium in TP HCM, when his father came to Vietnam, in 2025. *Photo: Le Giang Nam*

However, his journey back was not easy, as everything seemed to change simultaneously. He began his career in Vietnam at Cong an Ha Noi Club, then moved to Cong an TP HCM Club. The language barrier made daily communication a significant challenge. Often, he had to photograph administrative documents and send them to Slovakia for his father to translate. The hot, humid climate also forced his body to re-adapt. Living thousands of kilometers from his family sometimes made Patrik feel lonely. "There were times I questioned whether I had made the right decision," Patrik stated.

Despite the initial difficulties, Patrik calmly resolved to actively integrate and respect local culture, rather than waiting for the environment to adapt to him. Things changed positively when Patrik moved to TP HCM. He began learning Vietnamese and expanded his relationships, embracing the new environment. "This is a great school of my life. 3,5 years in Vietnam have taught me more lessons than 30 years living in Europe," he recounted, highlighting his personal growth.

Once familiar with his new surroundings, Patrik realized his father's diligence and love for family stemmed directly from the virtues of the Vietnamese people. He also clearly observed this spirit in football. "My teammates train hard and are disciplined; they don't need to be reminded twice," he said, appreciating their dedication.

Experiencing Tet himself helped him recall his childhood and understand why his father always wanted his children to maintain contact with their homeland. "For Vietnamese people, Tet is a time to return, connect with your roots, and know where you began," he stated, reflecting on the cultural significance.

Patrik (left) and his older brother as children. *Photo provided by character*

Every time the Vietnamese National Anthem plays, Patrik thinks of his father, brother, mother, and those who support him. "I know that every time I play, I am representing my family and my country," he said, expressing his profound sense of responsibility and pride.

From someone who didn't know his mother tongue, Patrik can now communicate basically in Vietnamese. He has developed a fondness for local cuisine, loving pho bo, and enjoying bac xiu and ca phe muoi. Sometimes on the street, many people recognize him and enthusiastically shake his hand, a testament to his growing connection with the community. "Now, every time I leave Vietnam, I miss it," he said, indicating his deep affection for his new home.

Mr. Le Giang Nam expressed his happiness at witnessing his son contribute to his homeland. For him, his son's journey to gain citizenship and play for the national team is the deepest testament to his desire to return to his roots. "I told my son, as long as you can tie your shoes and wear your gloves, serve Vietnam," the proud father shared, encapsulating his lifelong dream.

Pham Nga