Midfielder of «Genoa» and the national team of Ukraine Ruslan Malinovskyi spoke about the upcoming tasks of the national team and working under Serhii Rebrov.
Ruslan Malinovskyi and Serhii Rebrov. Photo: UAF press service— Last year was intense for the national team of Ukraine — Euro and League of Nations matches. How do you assess the team's performances with time?
— I have already talked about Euro in another interview. Let’s talk more about the League of Nations now. The start was not what we expected. But in the end, we managed to take second place in the group. We have a very cool team, it is always nice to come to the national team and play for your country.
We have such an atmosphere that even those who play less always give their all in training. You see how everyone works hard and tries to show themselves. I think that is the most important thing.
And of course, I hope that there will be many young guys in the national team now. We still have the World Cup qualifiers ahead. And these two games against Belgium will also be very interesting. The national team is moving forward. Our main goal is to qualify for the World Cup.
— You have worked with many interesting coaches. How is it to work under Serhii Rebrov?
— Each coach has his own approach and vision of football. A footballer must be a professional and be ready to play as much as the coach sees fit. He has a better understanding of which players from the roster fit his style of football, and decides who should play.
We have wonderful relationships with Serhii Stanislavovych and have always had. That's why I always come to the national team and give my maximum. As for playing less here, that is the coach's decision. I always respect the coach's decision and do my best to get more playing time.
— It immediately comes to mind how you supported the national team during the October matches, and they supported you after your injury.
— It was very pleasant that the guys did not forget to support me after such an injury. This again emphasizes my words that we have a very cool and friendly team. All the guys are wonderful, everyone communicates with each other, there’s no division into two camps, everyone is friendly. I think this is very cool for the national team.
Iryna Kozyupa
