Interview with Azerbaijani national team goalkeeper Yusif Imanov, who transferred to Kosovo club “Malisheva,” for AZERTAC.
– How did your move to the Kosovo club come about?
– This transfer was carried out through the agency I am under, based on a contract. There were several options, we evaluated them, and in the end, we reached an agreement with “Malisheva.” The most important thing for me was making the right choice. Naturally, my future career and development prospects were the priority in making this decision.
– Why the Kosovo championship specifically? Were there offers from local or other foreign clubs?
– To be honest, only one local club showed interest in me, and there was no concrete interest from others. But for me, the main factor was gaining match practice and having the opportunity to develop. The “Malisheva” management showed confidence in me, and this attitude played a key role in my decision. I consider this transfer as a door opening to European football in my career.
– The Kosovo league hasn’t developed much. Do you think this move could be a step back in your career?
– I see it not as a step back, but as a step forward. My main goal here is to get more match practice, challenge myself in a different environment, and adapt to European football. Yes, there may be stronger leagues, but for a player, development is key. I see this move as a new stage in my career.
– Could this transfer distract you from the national team coaches’ attention?
– I don’t think so. The main factor that brings a player to the forefront is consistent performance. If I perform well here, I won’t escape the attention of the national team coaches. On the contrary, this step motivates me to prove myself and earn a place in the national team again.
– In September, the Azerbaijan national team will face Iceland and Ukraine in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. How do you assess their chances?
– They are very strong opponents with a football tradition. But football is open to surprises. If the team fights until the end and believes in its strength, earning points is possible. As a player, I expect this from our national team. The most important thing is to show our full strength on the field.
– As a national team member, how do you assess Qarabag’s chances in the Champions League group stage?
– Qarabag has proven itself in Europe for many years. It is an experienced team that has successfully competed in major tournaments multiple times. I believe they will fight valiantly again this time and make our fans happy. As a player, I am proud of Qarabag’s achievements and wish them only success.
Idman.biz
