Former Dynamo Kyiv striker Artem Kravets has commented on the transfer of Ukraine international Artem Dovbyk from Dnipro-1 to Girona.
Artem Kravets- Girona signed Dovbyk to replace Valentin ("Tata") Castellanos, who ended up in Lazio in transit through the United States. Can a forward of Artem's profile fully replace the Argentine?
- First of all, I want to congratulate Artem and wish him success at Girona. This is a very high-quality acquisition for Girona. On the example of Tsygankov, they were convinced that players with Ukrainian passports can prove themselves in Spain.
- At this stage, what will be the most important thing for Artem? Is it the language? To quickly adapt to the Catalan mentality?
- The most important thing is to learn Spanish. A few years ago, he tried to prove himself in Denmark, but the Spanish championship will be stronger in terms of its potential. He will have to work hard and think a few steps ahead. The experience that Artem gained in Denmark in terms of living abroad should help him realise what he shouldn't repeat in Spain and focus solely on football. In Spain, all the teams want to play on the ball and are very well prepared in terms of tactics.
In everyday matters, everything will depend on how he takes care of himself. Yes, the Spaniards are more measured in everyday life, putting things off for later. It's all there. In terms of football, it's a completely different story. He will find himself in a cool atmosphere, a football country. This is what you need to build on. Dovbyk can look up to Toni Kroos, who has remained a professional with a capital P for nine years in Spain, maintaining a high level.
- Dovbyk will compete at the forefront of Girona's attack with the legendary Christian Stuani, who, at the age of 36, no longer plays much but is a great penalty taker. Will the Uruguayan have something to learn from Artem?
- If Girona paid the record money in their history for Dovbyk, then they are counting on him and have high hopes, and Stuani will be his substitute. Stuani will be able to give Artem some advice and help him adapt as quickly as possible
- Dovbyk and Tsygankov interact well with each other, which was evident in the national team's matches in June. At the club level, is this team ready to break the Premier League?
- Playing constantly in the same team, being in the same training process, Viktor and Artem will understand each other with their eyes closed. If Dovbyk proves himself well at Girona, it will also be a plus for the national team.
- At one time, many Ukrainian forwards tested themselves abroad. What should Dovbyk pay attention to in order not to repeat the sad fate of his compatriots?
- In my time, it was not mainstream to go abroad to play and try your hand. Now there are all the opportunities for this, players are released and given chances. The story of Artem is a good example of this.
- Isn't the Spanish Championship too much for Dovbyk ?
- Let's look at it soberly and without high expectations. Last season, Girona made an impression as a solid midfielder. They didn't fight for survival and gave a fight to the leaders.
- Is Dovbyk capable of becoming successful at Girona?
- At this stage, this is a great choice to continue my career. There is no point in going to a top club to sit under someone.
- Finally, how many matches will Artem play for Girona in 2023/2024 and how many goals will he score?
- I will bet that he will play at least 30 matches. If he scores more than ten, the season can be considered successful.
Oleksandr Karpenko
