Interview with Araz-Nakhchivan’s new signing Coshqun Diniyev for Report news agency.
Your transfer to Araz-Nakhchivan was quite a surprise. How did it happen?
I had the idea of returning to Azerbaijan. I want to thank the club’s president, Zaur Akhundov. He told me he wanted me in his team and sent me an offer. We sat down, talked, and the terms satisfied both sides. After that discussion, I was sure I wanted to play for Araz-Nakhchivan.
How much did the club’s ambitions in European competitions influence your decision?
I would say it played a major role. There’s a big difference between the previous Araz-Nakhchivan and the current team. The team was successful last year, and the goal this year is to repeat that result. In my opinion, Araz-Nakhchivan is one of the top three or four teams in Azerbaijan. Also, my conversation with Zaur Akhundov went very well.
What was discussed with the President of the Nakhchivan Football Federation, Zaur Akhundov?
We just sat and listened to each other. We discussed what each side wanted. I felt his trust in me, and that made my decision easy.
Do you consider your career in Turkiye successful?
Everything was fine at Bandirmaspor and Umraniyespor. Only at Corum did things not go as I wanted. I joined mid-season, some things happened, but as a footballer, I don’t think it’s right to dwell on that. I played a major role in the team’s first win, even scoring a double as a defensive midfielder, yet the coach didn’t play me for six consecutive games.
Do you know why you weren’t played?
Honestly, I don’t. Fans on social media were asking why I wasn’t on the pitch. The coach had his favorite players and didn’t want to change them. After six rounds, when the team lost, he was dismissed.
Did these situations make you consider returning to Azerbaijan?
Yes, I was getting tired. Football careers have ups and downs, but my child is growing and needs to go to school. Traveling frequently is exhausting, so I thought about returning to Azerbaijan.
Can we say you will stay in Azerbaijan until the end of your career?
No, I can’t be certain. Football is unpredictable, an offer might come tomorrow that suits me. But right now, I am a player for Araz-Nakhchivan, and I will do everything for the club.
Do you see returning to Azerbaijan as a step back in your career?
No, I don’t. I’m 29 now and have gained experience in tough leagues. I believe I can contribute to my team with what I’ve learned.
Could missing recent games at Corum affect your national team call-up?
Honestly, I don’t think I will be included, since I didn’t play in recent matches, even though I attended a month-long training camp with the national team. Of course, I would be happy to accept if offered.
Azerbaijan will soon face Iceland in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. What are your thoughts on the match?
I think it will be difficult. Every group is tough. Also, local players get fewer chances in the Premier League. But I believe we will start successfully.
Idman.biz
