Interview of former coach of Sabail, Elmir Khankishiyev to futbolinfo.az
– How did the last season of the national championship differ from the previous ones? Which teams were able to surprise you in a positive way?
– Traditionally, Qarabağ won the championship. This was known in advance. It was clear that Zira would fight for advanced places. But the fact that it took second place was a bit of a surprise. Because it was predicted from the beginning that Neftchi and Sabah would play for higher places. These two teams surprised me in a negative way. Sabah and Neftchi performed below their potential, they could not take the places they wanted in the championship. Sabah has one final match left in the cup. If they lose to Qarabag in the decisive match, the season will end unsuccessfully for them. The positive surprise was Araz-Nakhchivan. No one expected them to take 3rd place and qualify for the European Cups before the start of the season.
– How did the relegation of Sabail, where you worked as an assistant coach at the beginning of the season, to the First League at the end of the season affect you?
– Of course, Sabail leaving the Premier League affected me very badly. I worked at that club for two years. I was very saddened by their relegation to the First League. I hope that the Sabail team will recover and return to the Premier League in 1 year like Gabala. I wish Sabail success.
– Which players do you think were the breakthroughs of this season?
– I can mention 2-3 young players. Goalkeeper Alirza Mushtabazadeh from Sabail emerged as the breakthrough of the year. Khayal Aliyev from Sabah also showed himself from the best side. I would also mention Edgar Adilkhanov from Shamakhi. These footballers, whom we did not know anywhere before, showed themselves from the best side this season and became known. I wish them success in their future careers. May they increase even more, train more and reach even higher heights.
– Today, the final match of the national cup will be held between Qarabag and Sabah. Who do you think will win?
– The favorite is Qarabag. But final matches are such matches where you can always expect a surprise. Sabah can also surprise. Because this is their last chance to qualify for the European Cups. However, as I said, I consider Qarabag the favorite.
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