Olexandr YAKOVENKO: “Dynamo are not just a club, but a part of my soul”

Olexandr YAKOVENKO: “Dynamo are not just a club, but a part of my soul”

- Your transfer was unexpected as there was no information in media about it. How long did negotiations last?
- Actually I don’t know as my agent Andriy Holovash took care of everything. I got to know that Dynamo were interested in me when transfer window was almost closed. I came to Kyiv, had medical examination and signed contract.

- How difficult was it to make such decision?

- I’ve been supporting FC Dynamo Kyiv since my childhood. I’ve always dreamed of featuring for this team. I performed for different European teams for ten years, but if I had a chance to join Dynamo earlier I would have used it.

- Would you’ve joined another Ukrainian club if you got transfer offer?

- I guess in such a case I would have stayed in Europe. Dynamo are not just a club, but a part of my soul. I’ll do my best to prove it was a right choice to sign me.

- Will your family move to Kyiv?

- Sure, my wife and child will.

- How long will you contract be valid?

- It will be valid till the end of the season, but it can be prolonged. It’s all in my hands.

- What has your father said about your decision?

- He’s glad and he’s congratulated me. It’s great we’ll live in the same city. Dynamo are his native team.

- You’ve chosen squad number seven. What does it man to you?

- I like this number, besides my father had it. When I joined Dynamo and found out this squad number was available I picked it.

- You didn’t have much game practice lately. How difficult was it to stay fit?

- It was really uncomfortable for me. Every performer wants to play, but not just to get salary. That wasn’t easy from psychological point of view, but I’m glad I’ve overcome it.

- What can you say about your fitness?

- I’m in good conditions. Last month I worked with Fiorentina reserve team and even played several sparrings.

- What’s your favorite position on the field?

- I’m left winger, but I used to feature on different positions. When I joined Fiorentina I was a striker. Everything was fine until I picked up an injury.

- What was the peak of your career?

- I had both good and bad periods in all teams I performed for. I hope I’ll reach the peak of my career with Dynamo.

- You must have noticed that Serhiy Rebrov’s training proves is based on work with the ball. Was it the same in your previous teams?

- In Italy they pay more attention to tactics. I guess nowadays they mostly work with the ball.

- At the second training camp Dynamo will play six sparrings to recondition. Are you okay with that?

- It’s great for me as I didn’t have much game practice lately. I’ll have a chance to feel the game rhythm. I’ll do my best to approve myself.

- What are your expectations of the debut match for Dynamo?

- I really want to play against Manchester City FC, score and help my team to reach the next stage.

* photo by A. Kutsan

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