"Life as a legionnaire is truly not easy."
This was stated by Orkhan Aliyev, who has been playing for the Kyrgyz club "Ozgon" since last summer, in an interview with futbolinfo.az.
We present this interview.
– How is your career going in Kyrgyzstan? Have you been able to meet your expectations?
– Overall, everything is fine. Although there were some difficulties at first, I have now fully adapted to the team and the environment. I have been able to meet most of my expectations and I am satisfied with my performance.
– What were the most challenging aspects for you?
– It wasn't too difficult for me, as I have been playing in this league for half a year now. I was well received by the team and quickly got used to everything.
– How would you rate the level of the Kyrgyz Championship? What are the differences compared to the Azerbaijan Premier League?
– The level of the Kyrgyz Championship is not bad, but there are some differences compared to the Azerbaijan Premier League. In Azerbaijan, tactical play is developed, while here more emphasis is placed on physical strength.
– Life as a legionnaire is not easy for many footballers. How did you adapt to the language, mentality, and lifestyle in Kyrgyzstan? How is the attitude towards you there?
– Life as a legionnaire is really not easy. But I adapted quickly in terms of language, and my teammates and the club helped me a lot. There is not much difference in terms of mentality, so the adaptation process did not take very long. Overall, the attitude towards me is very good.
– How do you like Kyrgyz cuisine? Do you miss Azerbaijani food?
– They have interesting dishes. But of course, I miss Azerbaijani food. Especially the taste of home-cooked meals is completely different.
– What are your future plans: to stay in Kyrgyzstan or move to Europe? Have you received offers from other clubs this season, especially from Azerbaijan?
– I haven't made a specific decision. I am currently focusing on this season. But of course, I would like to play in higher-level leagues in the future. There have been some offers, including interest from clubs in Azerbaijan, but there is nothing official yet.
– Your recent goal against Kyrgyzstan's "Neftchi" attracted attention. It seems that this team is a "successful opponent" for you. Although from different countries, you used to score in all matches against "Neftchi" in Azerbaijan. Is this a motivational factor or just a coincidence?
– Scoring against "Neftchi" has already become an interesting trend. I think it's a bit of coincidence, a bit of motivation. When I play against this team, I become more eager, and this is reflected in the result.
– Are you able to watch the Azerbaijan Premier League? How do you see "Sabah's" chances of winning the championship?
– I watch it whenever I can. "Sabah's" chances of winning the championship look good this season. The team is performing stably and is strong enough to fight until the end.
– Your former club "Turan Tovuz" is fighting for European cups. In your opinion, which teams will represent Azerbaijan in continental competitions at the end of the season?
– It is gratifying that "Turan Tovuz" is in this fight. I think that at the end of the season, along with the traditional strong teams, there may also be surprise teams among the teams that will represent Azerbaijan in Europe.
– You are in good shape this season. Are you already waiting for an invitation from the national team? Do you consider yourself ready for the national team?
– I am in good shape this season and, of course, I would like to receive an invitation from the national team. I consider myself ready for the national team and, if given the chance, I will try to do my best.
– How suitable is playing in Kyrgyzstan for Azerbaijani footballers? What advice would you give to those who want to go there?
– It can be an interesting and useful experience. My advice to those who want to come here is to be patient and not be afraid of the initial difficulties. It is very important to go through this path to achieve success.