Ho Chi Minh vs Long An - V.League 2

A fascinating V.League 2 chapter awaits on May 9, 2026 when Ho Chi Minh take on Long An at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. United could come up against Garnacho once again this forthcoming season, with United scheduled to face Villa on November 7 at Old Trafford, before the return visit to Villa Park on January 16.

There is plenty riding on this V.League 2 encounter for Ho Chi Minh and Long An alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. The hosts have been in fine fettle of late, their recent run of WL underlining a campaign win rate of 100%. The visitors have found the going tough on their travels, L in their last five and a win rate of just 0% telling its own story. The contrast in attacking output — 1 versus 1 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Larson’s long-term plans have attracted renewed attention following teammate Alex Bowman’s recent announcement that he intends to retire from full-time Cup Series competition at the end of the 2027 season.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Ho Chi Minh may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Long An have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. Few of Bouaddi's age possess such a rare blend of physicality off the ball, and poise and balance in possession.

In fixtures as finely poised as this one, it often comes down to who holds their nerve in the big moments — and both camps have players who relish that responsibility. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Speaking to The United Stand, he claims Michael Carrick would potentially prefer a player like Aurelien Tchouameni over the Roma midfielder, or an alternative with Premier League experience.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 1-1 draw is easy to envisage. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the V.League 2 picture. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.