Andriy Shevchenko, President of the Ukrainian Association of Football, accepted an interview this week, talking about topics such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich.
On the Difficulties of Preparing for Matches Amid the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Shevchenko: Sometimes people don’t sleep all night. When we start working, we have to first find out where was bombed, who lives there, and what the situation is.
During the preparation for one of our matches, one of our players’ homes was bombed, but thank God, everyone survived. This is what we have to deal with every day.
On Peace in Ukraine
Shevchenko: There is a lot of news now, and we don’t know if it’s true or false. Everyone is eager for peace in Ukraine, but first of all, I want to say that this must be a reasonable peace that Ukraine and our European allies can accept. Of course, I pay attention to all this, but I know what my task is—it’s football, which is my top priority at present.
On Russia’s Suspension After the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Shevchenko: During this period, all countries that stand with Russia should be excluded, and we must exert pressure on all fronts at the same time.
On Being Once Registered as a Member of a Company Related to Abramovich; Now Abramovich’s UK Assets Are Frozen, and Legal Actions May Be Taken If He Does Not Use the Money from Selling Chelsea to Help Victims of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict...
Shevchenko: I have no relationship with Abramovich anymore. I saw this in the newspaper but didn’t look into it in depth. This is a matter between him and the government, but he must definitely pay this money.
