New Shakhtar Donetsk coach describes positive increase in Ukrainian patriotism
Read NV on Google
The new head coach of Ukrainian Premier League club Shakhtar Donetsk, Patrick van Leeuwen, has described how the growth of patriotism in Ukraine during wartime is a positive trend, according to a press release issued by the club on July 3.
Van Leeuwen said that Ukrainians have started to show more love and attention to their country, and to each other.
"Last year I worked at another Ukrainian club [FC Zorya Luhansk] and I can note that the country has become more patriotic in such a difficult time," Van Leeuwen said.
"I see how people support each other not only within the club, but also on the streets, so I believe that our fans should continue believing in a positive outcome, and use Shakhtar to enjoy the team and development of the club during this difficult period."
Van Leeuwen's contract with Shakhtar is valid until 2025.
Earlier, FC Shakhtar Sports Director Darijo Srna unceremoniously dismissed the previous coach, Igor Jovicevic, after a successful season with the club.
The military war may be swinging in our favor, but the information war continues.
Just as an army needs soldiers, so does a free society need its journalists to ensure that people have access to honest, trustworthy voices to understand the world around them.
For the past five years, The New Voice of Ukraine has been working tirelessly to push back against Russian narratives and defend democracy. But we cannot do it alone.
Please consider supporting us on Patreon for just $5 a month – your donation does directly to supporting journalists and ensuring that this front of the infowar says solid and defended.
Thank you.
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News
