Sport24.az
"Qarabağ" president Tahir Gozel answered journalists' questions after the return match of the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League, in which they defeated "Shkendija" with a score of 5:1. We present the interview, in which an employee of Sport24.az also participated:
- Did you expect such a big win?
- "Shkendija" played well in the first match. They created a lot of difficulties for us. In that meeting, our defense played a big role in our victory. We won relatively easily in the return match. I was pleased with the confident performance of the new players. Seeing Hikmat Jabrayilzade, one of the lights of Azerbaijani football, a future star, on the field gave me great happiness. Frankly, we didn't expect this result. Playing at home, in front of our native fans, played a role in the score. Azerbaijan won. Because there was the spirit of Azerbaijan on the field.
- Can we say that by scoring the first goal, "Shkendija", in simple terms, poked a stick into a beehive?
- After that goal, the support of the fans was excellent. Even though we were behind in the score, the fans encouraged the players. Thank God, we won a beautiful victory with a beautiful game.
- The next opponent is "Ferencváros"...
- "Ferencváros" receives special support, both from the state and from sponsors. They have a good budget. The opponent is very strong. However, in any case, our club will do its best with its stability and new transfers. Stability is our advantage. What we have gained and lost gives us experience. This is not the "Qarabağ" of 2017, but a very experienced team. We are very close to the League stage of the Champions League. We haven't been this close lately. It's already the play-off. God willing, we will host "Liverpool" and PSG in Baku. It will be a holiday for Azerbaijani football.
- Is there any news regarding the transfer of a striker?
- We gave Qurban hoca the biggest budget in the history of "Qarabağ". We have never had such a big budget. Of course, this is big for us. We respect Qurban hoca's patient, calm approach. He doesn't want to make a mistake. We also support his cautious behavior. Just like giant clubs don't rush into making a choice, they act cautiously.
- "Qarabağ" has already reached a level where any player can bring results to the team. Do you agree?
- Yes, all lines are working in our team. Let me say that if the right person comes, it will make a big difference to "Qarabağ". If we manage to get a new striker, we can compete with the giants as well.
- How true are the rumors that an agreement has been reached with Andre Clovis and a 3-year contract will be signed?
- I have no information. I'll ask Qurban hoca.
- Were you satisfied with Hikmat Jabrayilzade's performance?
- Of course. He is very promising, he can play at a higher level in the future. These are his first steps. He has talent, his morals and upbringing are in place. Hikmat is a talent born in Azerbaijan once every 10-15 years. He and time will show us how much he will reveal his talent.
- About 1-2 years ago, you said that "Qarabağ" will pay more attention to the academy from now on. Is this already bearing fruit?
- Frankly, as a leader, the attention I pay to the academy does not satisfy me. I am dissatisfied with myself (laughs). Yes, today Hikmets are coming out of our academy. But this is the result of the work of the people working there. We are very pleased with Aftandil Hajiyev. But as a club leader, I have done almost nothing for the academy. We can't find a place for the academy because we don't have the opportunity. Frankly, I think we have shown some weakness in that regard.
