He’s already made eight appearances for the White-Blues, scored one goal and got three assists to his name. We’ve talked to him about his adaptation to Kyiv and plans for the future.
- You joined Dynamo less than two months ago. What are your first impressions of the team and Kyiv?
- I think I’ve joined a very good club. I was impressed by Kyiv, our stadium and training complex. The city is nice, one always has what to do here. Sometimes people don’t understand me when I go to a shop or restaurant, but usually friends and teammates are beside me to help. I’m really happy to perform in Ukraine, on international arena. It’s a great chance for me.
- How long did it take you to get used to the team?
- It didn’t take me too long. In a week after I signed the contract I was on the players’ list. I spent the first game against FC Mariupol on the bench, but then I started playing. They treat me very well here. Guys help me with adaptation.
- Do you know you’re the first Uruguayan player in Dynamo history? Does it matter to you?
- It’s an honor for me. I know I’ve come to a great club. I aim to help the team succeed and win trophies.
- What are your impressions of the Ukrainian league?
- Every game is different, but I can say that Ukrainian teams have physically strong worthy performers. It’s a good league and next season we’ll try to win it.
- What did you feel when you made your debut for the White-Blues in the game against FC Shakhtar Donetsk?
- It was great to make my debut in such a game. I was a bit nervous. Despite the draw, I was happy and satisfied with my performance.
- It seems you’ve found a common ground with Olexandr Khatskevych.
- Olexandr is a very educated person. We respect him a lot. He had a fabulous career of player. Football needs such people. Of course it was hard to understand what he wanted me to do at first, but now I know major words.
- You play as left halfback. What’s your favourite position on the field? What positions did you play in featuring for other clubs?
- I played in many position, but my major one is left winger. Still I can perform in the midfield or on the right flank. In one of my previous teams I even was a left back for a while. It’s not a problem for me.
- What aims do you have in Dynamo?
- First of all I want to win a trophy. I hope we’ll be the champions next season. We also want to feature in the Champions League and to win the national cup.
- Whom do you mostly communicate with in Dynamo?
- Many players speak English, especially foreigners: Verbic, Duelund, Kadar. But Ukrainians also use it, for example, Shaparenko, Tsyhankov. Sol speaks Spanish, so I understand him really well. We have great atmosphere in the team and I’m happy to be here.
- Do you already have favourite spots in Kyiv?
- I really like Khreshchatyk. I like to take a walk there on weekends. There’re shops and restaurants I often visit. I was impressed by beauty of Kyiv. There’re a lot of parks here. I plan to check the new bridge soon.
- What are your plans for the vacation?
- I’ll spend it in Uruguay. I miss my family and friends. Besides, I’m getting married on June 15. You can check photos on Instagram (smiling).
- Is your contract with Dynamo valid till the end of the season?
- That’s not true. It’s valid till December of 2019 and it can be prolonged. Actually that’s what I want. I’d like to stay with Dynamo for a long time
Svitlana POLIAKOVA, Dynamo magazine (#2, April-June 2019)
