"The goal is always the championship. We cannot start working without thinking about it."
This was stated by Cenk Sumer, CEO of "Neftchi", in an interview with futbolxeber.az.
We present the interview:
- "Neftchi" won a difficult victory in Gabala (2:0). What are your thoughts on the game?
- Things were not going well until the 70th minute. We had difficulties especially in the center of the field. Our head coach gave Sessi D`Almeida a rest. He was planning to start the game with Emil Safarov. But he also fell ill one day before the game, and the plans changed. As a result of all this, the team was not as we wanted in the middle line. On the other hand, the weather conditions in Gabala should also be taken into account. We made some mistakes in the first half. After the break, Metyu and Abubakar's appearance on the field created dynamics in the center and we were able to do what we wanted in the attack. These two players showed that they were useful transfers for "Neftchi".
- Surely, Vensan Abubakar couldn't imagine a better debut than this...
- Abubakar is a football player I know. You know that we worked together in "Besiktas". It was really a good start for him. His successful debut gave confidence to both the team and the head coach. We will see a stronger Abubakar in the near future. I believe in it.
- "Neftchi" won its second victory in the ninth round. Do you agree that this is too little?
- That's right. But we also said at the beginning of the season that we are building a new team. Compared to last year, our staff has changed significantly. Building a new team is not easy. Everything will fall into place over time. Let the fans believe in the team. We will play with "Kapaz" in the next round, we have to think about every match. I would very much like the fans not to leave the team unsupported in that game. Today, "Neftchi" needs their support.
- After the victory over "Sumgayit", most people thought that "Neftchi" had come out of the "black streak". But the team stumbled in the next round. What do you think, will the victory continue this time?
- It must come. We are also waiting. We, as the club management, are doing everything for this. Let our fans be comfortable. Everyone in the club takes their work seriously. Yes, our results were unsuccessful at the beginning of the season. There were referee errors in some matches and we lost important points. I believe that these will not be repeated, everyone will learn from their mistakes.
- As you mentioned, the club is doing everything to achieve success. But what is missing?
- As I said, the staff is newly formed. The players are getting to know each other. There is difficulty in adaptation. It is not easy for a legionnaire, a new country, a new club, new teammates. Football is a result game. 6 draws in 8 rounds is not normal. We won our second victory in the meeting with "Gabala". The opponent must also be given their due. "Gabala" is a good team. They will become even stronger over time. I also wish them success in their work.
- Have the results at the start of the season moved "Neftchi" away from its goals?
- The goal is always the championship. We cannot start working without thinking about it. On the other hand, it is not easy for a new team to achieve success. "Neftchi" has a name. "Neftchi"'s place is in Europe. And we are not just thinking about this season. Our transfers are not only intended for this season. We have taken certain steps thinking about the next season. The team will get into rhythm. We will fight until the end in the championship. Our goal is also to win in the cup.