The head coach of «Shakhtar», Arda Turan, shared his expectations for Ukraine’s national team’s matches in the World Cup 2026 qualifying cycle against France and Iceland.
Arda Turan. Photo: shakhtar.com— As a former player, what is most important in any footballer’s career is the national team. Even in the toughest moments that may occur in the club arena, like the match with LNZ, I tried to send the guys to the national team camp with as positive an attitude as the circumstances allowed.
I was at the match with Azerbaijan, and as you know, Turks and Azerbaijanis are very close nations; you could say we are true friends, but despite this, I sincerely supported Ukraine’s national team to boost the morale of the «Shakhtar» players. As I emphasized: the club, of course, plays a very important role in your career, but first and foremost, we defend the flag of the country where we were born. I am convinced that my players have enough talent to worthily present both the national team and «Shakhtar» at the club level.
I also believe that the Ukrainian national team has a very talented coach, and in recent matches, the guys demonstrated true fighting qualities and dedication on the field for this flag and this country. Therefore, my heart will be with Ukraine in these matches, — quoted Turan on the official Shakhtar website.
