Dynamo Kyiv head coach Ihor Kostiuk spoke in detail to the club’s press service about his appointment, the formation of the coaching staff, training methodology and his vision of modern football.
New role and responsibility
Becoming head coach marks a new stage in Kostiuk’s career bringing greater responsibility and higher demands. Preparation for the winter training camp was carefully planned together with the physical and performance coaching staff.
Coaching staff
The staff has been strengthened with a video analyst and a functional fitness coach. Maciej Kędziorek, Vitalii Kulyba, Mykhailo Fedunov and Taras Lutsenko remain with the team. The staff was also joined by Volodymyr Klymenko and Volodymyr Malitskyi while Oleh Venhlynskyi and Serhii Shepel moved up from the U19 team with Kostiuk.
Training process and planning
Training planning starts from the match calendar. The programme is developed collectively by the coaching staff and adjusted on an ongoing basis depending on the players’ condition and current objectives.
Competition and mentality
Only best players earn a place in the lineup. High intensity, competitiveness and full commitment in training are essential as they directly influence match performance.
Dynamo’s playing model
Dynamo are building a modern playing model - vertical, zonal and intensive - with an emphasis on quick decision-making and efficiency. Supporters should clearly recognise Dynamo’s identity on the pitch.
Youth and experience
Age is not a decisive factor. Players who show ambition, responsibility and desire to win will play. The balance between young and experienced players is determined individually based on the team’s needs at a given moment.
Working with foreign players
Adaptation of foreign players is achieved through theoretical sessions, individual meetings and daily training, helping them better understand coach’s requirements and emotions.
Modern football perspective
Kostiuk views modern football as a complex system that combines sport, science, technology and media. His outlook has been shaped by the legacy of Valerii Lobanovskyi and his experience working with European specialists.
Personal background
The Dynamo head coach warmly recalls his childhood and early football steps, highlighting the importance of family support. Among the key influences on his coaching philosophy he names his first coach Oleksandr Shpakov and the Spanish specialists he worked with during his time at Dynamo.
