Jose Mourinho: "We stand together in the issue of supporting Ukraine and its people"

Roma head coach Jose Mourinho commented on the Shakhtar club Youtube channel on the outcome of the charity match against the Pitmen.

“What does hosting this charity match mean to me? You need to look at it from two sides. One is football: it is important for us to play with a good team, a team that loves to play football, likes to build a game from the back line, because this creates difficulties, and it’s good for us before the start of the season.

The other side is human. Of course, I believe that everyone at this stadium stands together in support of Ukraine and its people in such a difficult period. Therefore, in my opinion, people came for two reasons: to watch football and to support.

I played matches in Ukraine several times, but never played in Donetsk and never with Shakhtar, which is incredible, because I participated in many matches of European football. It was great to play such a game, even in such a situation, even after the loss of important foreign players, experienced players. It was very good for us to play against this young team that shows good football.

I prefer to call it the human side of football. Football is a strong game. Football can show human emotions. But, of course, everyone present at this stadium deeply feels the problems of the Ukrainian people. I believe that Ukrainians demonstrate how united, courageous and friendly they are. And there is nothing to add here. Of course, we all know what we want - happiness, peace," Mourinho said.