"Neftchi" returned with one point from the away match against "Turan Tovuz" in the XIII round of the Azerbaijan Premier League. After saying goodbye to Samir Abasov, Bosnian goalkeeper Kenan Pirić appeared on the field as captain for the first time in the team temporarily led by Sanan Gurbanov.
Giving an interview to "teleqraf" after arriving in Azerbaijan, Kenan Pirić spoke about "white-blacks", his career, adaptation process and other topics:
- What are your thoughts on the tense and equal match?
- We had analyzed the opponent well. There were just episodes that we couldn't capitalize on. Their strengths were standard situations and they used them very well. So, we didn't have much luck. All hopes are for the next game. We must put all our strength to win.
– How did Samir Abasov's departure affect the team? In your opinion, what changes did Sanan Gurbanov make in the team in a short time?
– There were no special and very big changes. The coach left the team a few days ago. But we must fight with all our strength in every game. We must fight to the end. We can only achieve victory in this way.
– Sanan Gurbanov entrusted you with the captain's armband. How does it feel to bear this responsibility?
– First of all, I am happy for this. This gives me extra motivation. I feel more motivated. I work with all my strength. There is no pressure on me. I am a captain, but its burden is not heavy. On the contrary, my self-confidence is higher.
– How does being criticized by the fans affect you?
– Frankly, I don't pay attention to the comments. I didn't start the season the way I wanted. But I know myself, I trust my potential. I know what I am capable of. I will increase it even more every game to further improve my skills. They are tense, it's normal. I also get angry. But what can I do? I just have to work regularly and show my skills. I hope everything will be fine in the future.
– You hesitated a bit when you came to "Neftchi" in the summer. When you hear such criticisms, don't you regret coming to "Neftchi"? In general, what do you promise the fans?
– No one can say what will happen tomorrow. But I can promise that I will get better and improve myself. That's all I can promise.
– As a foreigner, what difficulties do you experience in Baku?
– When I came here, I had trouble finding an apartment. Because I couldn't find a suitable place. But overall, the adaptation was quick. My family and I adapted here quickly. My children go to school here. One negative point is that Baku is a bit congested and there is a lot of wind.
– What do you like most about Azerbaijani cuisine?
– I love Azerbaijani cuisine in general. Because you can find a lot of beautiful and varied dishes here. Especially, I love kebab.