Shakhtar Donetsk manager Arda Turan has made a statement regarding his name being linked to the A National Team head coaching position. Speaking at a press conference at Stamford Bridge ahead of the UEFA Champions League match against AEK, Turan said that the interest shown in him is a great honor.
Turan, whose name has been mentioned for the national team following the departure of Vincenzo Montella, recalled that he previously wore the crescent-and-star jersey in various age categories and for the A National Team, stating, "I cannot describe what a great honor it is for a person." Emphasizing his devotion to his country and flag, Turan expressed that there can be different ways to represent Turkey.
Stating that as a young manager he wants to continue his development on the pitch, Turan expressed that he values representing Turkey by working in Europe. Turan said, "I believe that as the first Turkish coach in history to win a championship in Europe, I have taken up the flag that Fatih Terim carried to Fiorentina and Milan years ago."
"THERE ARE CHILDREN WITH WHOM I SHARE DREAMS"
Stating that he is committed to Shakhtar Donetsk for the duration of his contract, Turan underscored the promise he made to club president Rinat Akhmetov, the management, and his players. Noting that he does not want the agenda regarding his own future to overshadow the team ahead of the AEK match, Turan reminded everyone of his responsibility toward his players by saying, "There are children with whom I share dreams."
Turan also said he was uncomfortable with comments suggesting he needed to be "convinced" to take the national team job. Stating, "As a citizen of the Republic of Turkey, there is no such situation of needing to be convinced," Turan concluded his remarks by saying, "Throughout my contract, I am bound with infinite loyalty to Mr. Rinat Akhmetov, to Shakhtar's dreams, and most of all to the players to whom I gave my word. I hope the matter is clearly understood."
News Source: 12punto
