Interview of Araz-Nakhchivan head coach Elmar Bakhshiyev to Report news agency.
– How would you assess the training camp held in Turkiye?
– It was an interesting and beneficial camp for our team. Over two weeks, we worked on both physical and tactical-technical aspects. The boys were enthusiastic and motivated, trying to carry out the tasks given to the best of their abilities. This camp was also useful for helping our new transfers adapt. We will complete the final stage of preparations for the match against Aris in Baku. During the camp, certain workloads were introduced, and tactical-technical drills were conducted. We will gradually start to see the results. Therefore, I can’t say the team is 100 percent ready yet. But I believe the readiness level is around 70–80 percent.
– What were the positive and negative aspects during the camp?
– The accommodation provided good conditions, especially in terms of nutrition. The training pitches were also acceptable. There were no obstacles to preparing well. The players understood what we wanted and what needed to be done as a team. They were doing their utmost to reach the goal. Naturally, this stage of preparation is not ideal in every sense. The effects of the workloads and training will be seen throughout the season.
– Among the friendly matches, your victory over a well-known team like Trabzonspor was a pleasant surprise. Did you specially prepare for that match?
– When planning the camp in Erzurum, we intended to play 3–4 friendlies. The first match was against an amateur team. The next three were against Turkish Super Lig clubs. They were interesting games. We gave all players a chance to play. We didn’t specifically prepare for any one game. There were points we paid special attention to, and that’s what we focused on. More than the result, what mattered to us was how the team performed on the field. Trabzonspor has many fans in our country, so we knew the match would attract great interest.
– Which of the new transfers impressed you the most?
– I wouldn’t want to single anyone out. We had watched all of them multiple times and identified specific qualities that caught our attention before signing them. Each player has a particular role in the team. They have come here to help us achieve our objectives.
– Vadim Abdullayev, one of the players who left Araz-Nakhchivan, said he expected the club to offer a new contract. He also mentioned he played a key role in the team’s qualification for European competitions. What would you say about that?
– Vadim was one of the key players in our team. Of course, the whole squad, including him, contributed to our success. We are grateful for that. After qualifying for the European cups, we needed to strengthen the squad. You know the player we’ve signed for his position. I wish Vadim success with his new team. He will continue playing in the Premier League.
– What goals has the club set for the European competitions?
– We want to perform well and progress through as many rounds as possible. I believe the European journey will be a successful one for us.
– Have you analyzed your Conference League opponent Aris?
– Yes, we have gathered some information on them. They are a strong team, well-prepared, and have made a few new signings. We will provide the necessary tactical details to the team in Baku.
Idman.biz
