Brazilian volleyball player Matheus Araujo is continuing his career in Azerbaijan. After spells with Neftchi and Ordu, the 34-year-old opposite hitter has joined Murov Az Terminal, where the experienced foreign player faces new challenges.
In an interview with İdman.Biz, Araujo spoke about his decision to change clubs, his impressions of Azerbaijani volleyball and his ambitions for the new season.
– Murov Az Terminal is the third Azerbaijani club of your career. What influenced your decision to continue playing here?
– First of all, I feel very comfortable in Azerbaijan. Over the past two seasons, I have had the opportunity to get to know the local championship, the people and the volleyball atmosphere. I have good memories of my previous clubs and am grateful to them for the opportunities they gave me. Murov Az Terminal's offer seemed interesting from a professional perspective. I saw potential and an opportunity to become part of a new project.
– How difficult was it to leave Ordu after winning the silver medal in the national championship?
– Ordu will always remain an important part of my career. We had a good season, worked hard and won silver medals in the championship. It was the result of a collective effort. I have positive memories of the club, my teammates and the coaching staff. However, professional sport brings new challenges. Sometimes you need to move forward.
– You now face a new challenge at Murov Az Terminal. What goals have you set for the upcoming season?
– I always try to set ambitious goals. I want to help the team win matches, perform consistently and compete for the highest positions. For me, it is important not only to score points but also to support my teammates, share my experience and create a positive atmosphere within the squad. I am confident that with the right approach, we can achieve a lot.
– You are already very familiar with the Azerbaijani championship. How has its standard changed over the past two years?
– I definitely see progress. Interesting foreign players are joining the league, while local volleyball players are also becoming stronger. Competition is increasing, and clubs are working to improve their organisation and the quality of their performances. This is very important for the development of Azerbaijani volleyball as a whole. I like the fact that the league is becoming increasingly competitive and exciting.
– You have played in Brazil, Qatar, Lebanon, Greece, Portugal and Lithuania. How does Azerbaijani volleyball differ from the other leagues you have experienced?
– Every country has its own characteristics. Playing styles, tactical approaches, atmosphere and levels of competition vary. In Azerbaijan, I have met good specialists and talented players. I appreciate people's attitude towards sport and the clubs' desire to develop. In addition, I have had the opportunity to work in good conditions and feel comfortable here.
– You play as an opposite hitter. How much have the demands of this position changed in recent years?
– Modern volleyball is becoming faster and more dynamic. An opposite hitter must not only attack effectively but also be prepared for difficult situations during matches, choose the right moment to strike and contribute to blocking. Physical fitness, concentration and consistency are essential. Experience helps me understand the game better, but I continue to learn and improve.
– During your time in Azerbaijan, you must have made many friends and acquaintances. How comfortable do you feel here outside the volleyball court?
– Very comfortable. I like Baku, its architecture, the seaside promenade and the atmosphere of the city. I enjoy walking around the Old City, discovering the local culture and, of course, Azerbaijani cuisine. People here are hospitable and friendly. I think that is one of the reasons why I want to continue my career in Azerbaijan.
