The new head coach of Neftchi, Yuriy Vernydub, gave an interview to the club’s official website. He explained why he chose the Baku club, shared his first impressions after meeting the squad, and outlined the main objectives for the season.
According to Idman.biz, Vernydub said he received offers from both inside the country and abroad, but once Neftchi approached him, he did not hesitate: "As soon as the offer from Neftchi came in, I immediately put all the other options aside. Neftchi is a club with a rich history."
He added that he has known the team for many years: "I remember this club from the Soviet championship days, and I also played against them during my career. Neftchi is well known and popular in Ukraine." After talks with the management, the coach says he quickly understood the ambition of the project: "I liked it a lot: there is systematic work here and big plans. Yes, the current results are not ideal, but that is temporary. Together we can improve them."
Speaking about his first days on the training ground, Vernydub praised the squad and the club’s recruitment: "The team is made up of professional footballers. The club has carried out a smart transfer policy that matches the goals set. There are strong players in every position, and my expectations are very high." He stressed that the group needs to adapt fast: "The season is already in full swing and there is no time to ease into it. We will try to instill our playing philosophy as quickly as possible and take the players to a new level tactically, physically, and psychologically."
On transfer plans, the coach made it clear that the focus is on the current squad: "No new transfers are planned in the near future. In the long term, strengthening the squad is envisaged, but right now the main priority is to raise the level of the players who are already here. I trust them."
Vernydub underlined that the immediate task is to improve results and climb the table: "We have to improve our results first of all. There is a lot of work to do, but we are not afraid of difficulties." He also pointed to the support he feels inside the club: "From the first day I have felt full support from the management. I am sure that together we will cope with these challenges."
As for the main target, the coach left no doubt: "Neftchi is aiming only for the championship." He admitted the current position is not where the club wants to be, but set a clear benchmark for the end of the season: "Yes, our place in the standings is far from what we want, but by the end of the season we must be among the leaders. We will fight to the end and do everything possible." He also mentioned the next step: "Starting with the match against 'Sumgayit', we will try to begin a winning streak."
Addressing the supporters, Vernydub emphasized the club’s identity and the responsibility he feels: "This club is as great as its supporters. There is a huge army of fans, from young to old, whose hearts beat for Neftchi." He promised the team will work to repay that loyalty: "We will do everything possible to live up to their hopes and send them home after every game with positive emotions." And he ended with a direct appeal: "I ask the fans to keep supporting the players."
