In the evening of February 18th, VPF has signed a deal with Tanaka Koji, then Mr Tanaka Koji will manage V-League. This is also the first time Viet nam football was leaded by a foreigner. 

Mr Tanaka Koji ( left)

Mr Tanaka Koji has been invited to Vietnam because VPF wanted to improve V-league by applying professional features of J-League. Having examining Vietnam’s football and watching game between Dong Nai and V-Ninh Binh, Mr Koji has agreed to manage V-League. On February 16th, he has returned to Vietnam to signed contract with VPF and officially head V-League’s managing board.

The Japanese expert said:” It’s my honor to manage an important role of Vietnam’s football. Your football fans passion and supports from VPF will encourage me to play it well. I’m going to learn about Vietnam football ‘s foundation skills then quickly to adapt to my work.”

As a manager of managing board, mr Tanaka Koji will able to give decision for league. General director VPF, mr Pham Ngoc Vien confirmed that: ” Tanaka will have power to decide important situations. This role requires dedication, passion and high professionalism. We believe that, Tanaka will help Vietnam’s football significantly with our supports.”

Mr Koji ( born in 1955) has been working for Japanese professional football, therefore he experienced in managing as well as youth training. He started his career as a football player of striker position then he was called in national football team in 1982-1984. After hanging boots, he turned to coaching and training young players.

Tanaka Koji career’s milestone:

1978-1988: Play for NKK
1989 – 1992: Coach NKK
1993 – 1995: Coach Japan’s U-18, U-19, U-20
1995 – 1999: Coach Nagoya Grampus Eight
2001 – 2002: Coach Shonan Bellmare
2003 – 2005: Director of Vegalta Sendai

Truc Phuong