"Currently, our main goal is to get to know the footballers we have invited more closely, to evaluate them within the team, and to assist in the adaptation process."
Medianews.az reports that these words were said by Rashad Eyyubov, the head coach of the Azerbaijan national team under 21, in an interview with AZERTAC. We present the interview:
- The Azerbaijan U-21 team has completed the training camp held in Baku. How do you assess the preparation process? Are you satisfied with the physical condition of the team and the players?
- The first phase of the camp – the adaptation stage – went well. After a short break, it was important for us to bring the players' physical condition back to an optimal level. I think we have achieved that. We are now in Turkey and have fully focused our attention on the upcoming matches.
- Within the framework of training preparation in Turkey, the national team will test its strength in friendly matches on June 6 against Bahrain's U-23 and on June 9 against Kyrgyzstan's U-21 team. How would you characterize these opponents? What are your main expectations from these games?
- Yes, we have two games ahead against Kyrgyzstan's U-21 and Bahrain's U-23 teams. Overall, these are unusual opponents for us. But I can say that both teams display interesting football. Difficult and useful games await us.
- What are your thoughts on the newly called-up players to the team, especially Lorenzo Mezzotero and Mustafa Kamara? What qualities do you think they will bring to the national team?
- I am satisfied with Lorenzo, Mustafa, Yusif Mehtiyev, Raul Suleymanov, and Elyas Bağcı. They can bring new energy, new qualities to our team, and a different style to our game. Our goal is to use their strong points properly and direct these qualities for the benefit of the team.
- Despite the recent performance of "Sumqayit" goalkeeper Khayal Farzullayev, his absence from the U-21 national team roster has sparked some discussion. What can you say about the reasons for this decision?
- Khayal is a good goalkeeper. I am glad he is gaining regular playing practice. His absence from this camp does not mean we have lost hope in him for the future. At the same time, Fakhri, Senan, and Agadadash are also not with us in this camp. We monitor all players and keep each one under observation.
- Recently, the inclusion of footballers playing abroad and holding Azerbaijani passports in the U-21 team has attracted attention. Are new names expected to be invited to the team in upcoming camps or official matches?
- Yes, there are other players we are watching and in contact with. But we decided that this is enough in terms of new names for the summer camp. Currently, our main objective is to get to know the invited players more closely, evaluate them within the team, and assist in the adaptation process.