Sport24.az
An interview of Fariz Najafov, the president of "Gabala", which became the champion in the I League and promoted to the Premier League, to AZERTAC
- "Gabala" has returned to the Premier League. How do you assess your success?
- As I have mentioned before, the main goal was to finish the I League with a victory and to do it in a way worthy of "Gabala". As a result of the successful work of the team and the coaching staff, we secured the ticket 7 rounds before the end and the 1st place 4 rounds before the end. These results speak for themselves. I would like to thank once again everyone who contributed to our success and the fans who supported us.
- In general, how do you assess the team's performance in the I League? What were the most difficult and decisive moments?
- Our championship may seem easy from the outside. In fact, it was not easy for us at all. There was quite a strong competition in the I League. I certainly highly appreciate the work of the team that conceded the fewest goals, scored the most goals and lost twice in the face of this competition. The most decisive moments, of course, were the games with our closest followers. In these matches, our team performed its duties at a high level. I would especially mention that after we rose to the leadership with the victory in the game against "Karvan" in Yevlakh, we kept this step until the end.
- What innovations are expected in the new season in terms of budget, sponsorship and overall financial situation?
- As you know, the amount allocated for Premier League clubs has been reduced by 500 thousand manats. It is inevitable that this will make our work a bit more difficult. However, we are trying to form a budget that will allow us to compete for high goals next season. We recently signed a food sponsorship agreement and will continue our activities in this direction.
- Is the current squad competitive enough to compete in the main league? What are your plans in terms of strengthening?
- The level difference between the Premier League and the I League is obvious. In this regard, there will definitely be various changes in the squad. In addition to the graduates of our academy, several legionnaires will be transferred.
- Will players from the "Gabala" Football Academy be given a chance in the Premier League in the new season?
- Our main priority has always been to train players at the national team level for Azerbaijani football. This season, many of our young football players were given a chance in the I League. In the Premier League, our coaches will also pay attention to the graduates of our academy.
- The fans were eagerly awaiting the team's return. What message would you like to give them?
- I would like to thank everyone who supports our club. I am especially grateful to our loyal fans who always support our team, both in away and home games. We want to see more supporters in our games next season. We are doing and will do everything we can for this.
- What will be your main goal for the next season?
- "Gabala" has always been known as a team that is ambitious and competes healthily in the championship, and we will continue in the same way.
