23-year old performer has already become the White-Blues first team regular.
He scores both in the UPL and in euro cups. In this interview Younes has told about his life in Ukraine, his play and aims.
- Younes, you have already spent more than three months in Ukraine. Have you adapted to our climate?
- My adaptation is in progress. Local climate differs from French one. Anyway the weather is fine. I feel comfortable.
- What can you say about Kyiv? Have you already seen any sights?
- Unfortunately I haven’t seen a lot yet. I live not far from Khreshchatyk. Kyiv is a beautiful city. I like it.
- Do you live alone?
- I live with my wife. My brother has also come to Ukraine with his family.
- Do you experience any difficulties in everyday life?
- Fortunately we have an interpreter and Russian language tutor. Still she speaks English with us.
- Who do you usually interact with in Dynamo?
- Most of allI communicate with French-speaking players. The majority of Dynamo performers can speak English. We even try to use Russian. Anyway it’s necessary to interact with everyone! We must be the sole team on the pitch and outside it.
- What is the main difference between Ukrainian and French football?
- In Ukraine a lot of attention is being paid to technical skills. Ukrainian players have better physical conditions.
- Do you think that in 2011/12 season HSC Montpellier were a kind of phenomenon?
- With a help of our coach Rene Girard we managed to win Ligue 1 though we didn’t have great financial possibilities.
- Many players come from Ligue 1 to Ukrainian Premier League. Is transfer to Dynamo a step forward for you?
- Of course it is. I came to Dynamo to achieve something new. My main aim is to perform for one of English top teams.
- Was it difficult to adapt to new team considering the fact that you missed the training camp?
- I worked individually with Dynamo physical trainer Vitaliy Kulyba. I faced the same problem during my second season in Montpellier, but I managed to overcome all difficulties.
- Do you enjoy working with Oleh Blokhin?
- I do. I know that he used to be a great player and now he is a great coach. It’s good that he is always ready to discuss something with us if necessary.
- What is the main reason for Dynamo current failures?
- This summer Dynamo signed many new players. We just need time to find common ground.
- Was the lopsided win over FC Metalurh Donetsk unexpected for you?
- After the first 45 minutes the score was 2:1, but one of Metalurh players was sent off. In the second half we started using our chances.
- Can such win inspire of relax the team?
- I think such wins give confidence. We mustn’t relax.
- Was the hat trick you scored against Metalurh the first one in your career?
- Yes, it was.
- You play as midfielder. How important is it for you to score?
- It’s important both to score and to create chances for my teammates.
- Is the position of attacking midfielder your favorite one?
- Yes, it is. Attacking midfielders have enough latitude.
- You have already netted five goals within the UPL. Do you aim for more?
- It’s not important how much I will score. The success of our team is above all.
- What can you say about Dynamo current position in Europa League?
- We had to win two last games. Anyway we’ll do our best to qualify for the next stage.
- Will the pause in the UPL be useful for your team?
- It can help Dynamo a bit. International players have already joined the team. They need some time to focus on the UPL.
- What do you know about Dynamo next opponent FC Arsenal Kyiv?
- I know that they suffered 0:7 hammering against FC Shakhtar Donetsk. Still the game will be difficult as it’s a derby.
- Morocco national team haven’t qualified for the World Cup…
- It’s a pity that we won’t go to Brazil. Still in 2015 AFCON will take place in Morocco. We must prepare for this competition properly.
- Will you support Ukraine if the Yellow-Blues participate in the World Cup?
- I really hope that Ukraine national team will go to Brazil. Their top performers play for Dynamo.
- Do you like NSC Olimpiyskyi and Dynamo fans?
- The stadium is wonderful! Fans are also great. We are especially thankful for their support during away matches.
- Do you visit Dynamo official website?
- Yes, I read different articles and watch videos.
- Nowadays they speak a lot about racism. Have you witnessed any discrimination in Ukraine?
- No, I haven’t!
- What can you say to calm Dynamo fans and to invite them to you matches?
- Fans’ support is very important for us. When I came to Kyiv I talked with the White-Blues president about Dynamo aim to take the rightful place in the UPL this season. We’ll do our best to achieve this goal.
Andriy Nedbailo from Koncha-Zaspa
