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Interview of Dmitro Litvin, the former Ukrainian defender of "Sabail", to Futbolinfo.az
– Let's start with the last season. At the beginning of the season, it was not predicted that "Sabail" would leave the Premier League. What was the reason for the unsuccessful result?
– It never occurred to me that we would fight to survive, and moreover, we would be relegated from the league. The reasons were different. In my opinion, the main reason was that there were 3 different head coaches in one season. Each of them wanted to add something unique to the team, to bring some freshness, but it took time, and we didn't have that time. There was a lack of stability in the results. These were the reasons that affected the players. Other reasons were related to the internal problems and difficulties faced by the club's management.
– Do you think that "Sabail" will be able to return to the Premier League in 1 year, or will it be difficult for them to realize this?
– A club like "Sabail" deserves to be in the Premier League. I hope the team will return to the league next year.
– Where will you continue your career? Is the name of your new team known?
– Yes, I decided to continue my career in Malaysia. I have reached an agreement with the "Kuala Lumpur City" club.
– During the current transfer period, were there any other clubs from Azerbaijan interested in you and sending offers? In general, would you like to continue your career in Azerbaijan?
– According to my agent, there was also interest from Azerbaijan, but there was no concrete offer and it was necessary to wait. Unexpectedly, an offer came from Malaysia, the club showed serious interest in me, and we solved everything in a few days, so I am very happy. If there is an offer from Azerbaijan in the future, I will definitely consider it.
– Last season, you played against many strikers in the Azerbaijan championship. Who was the most difficult for you, the most outstanding forward in terms of level?
– First of all, I would mention Juninho, the former striker of "Qarabag". With his runs behind the defenders, he pulled back the opponent's defensive line, which gave his team great spaces. Juninho was also very strong in counter-attacks thanks to his speed. After Juninho, I would mention Davit Volkov. The "Zira" forward stood out for his correct runs in the penalty area and accurate finishing of episodes.
"The trio" also includes Luis Pachu, the striker of "Kapaz", who was our main rival last season. He held the ball well up front, which helped his team move the game to the opponent's half. Pachu was instrumental in many of the goals scored by "Kapaz".
– In your opinion, which team will be able to end "Qarabag"'s dominance in the Azerbaijan championship next season? Or does it seem impossible?
– No team (laughs). "Qarabag" has great experience and stability – many of its players have been playing together for years, the team regularly participates in European cups, and it has about 20 players of approximately the same level in its squad. These things give "Qarabag" a great advantage in the long term, so no one can compete with them in the championship. The club that wants to compete with them on an equal level must first of all have financial capabilities at approximately the same level. Secondly, time is needed. Because many clubs will rebuild their teams and will have to go through changes to form their playing style and collective relationships. "Neftchi" and "Sabah" may be able to compete with "Qarabag" in the future, but not in the upcoming season.
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