Today.Az » Society » I believe football will gradually develop in Azerbaijan: UEFA president
15 October 2009 [14:32] - Today.Az
APA's interview with UEFA President Michel Platini after Turkey-Armenia match in Bursa Ataturk stadium.
APA: What would you say about Turkey-Armenia match? How will this match help to establish peace in the region?
Michel Platini: I am not a politician. Football is a game for me. I am French and unaware of the problems among Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Therefore, I am interested in the future of football more than these problems. The present generation likes to engage in the past.
I think we should escape hardships of the past and think about the common future. I have come to Turkey for this – to give a message for common future.
Q: What would you say about the problems of football in Azerbaijan?
A: I know you sport minister and AFFA president very well. I believe that they want to work to improve football. Football is the business of players, not of those who manage it. You can blame minister or federation president when there are problems, but you should know that football is an affair of players.
Q: Azerbaijan’s national football team is on the last places in the world and European championship qualifiers. Do you think only footballers are guilty?
A: I believe that football will gradually develop in Azerbaijan. The future of Azerbaijan’s football is as important for me as the future of French football. My main task is to help children learn to play football. Sport Minister, Football Federation give financial support, buy shoes, uniforms for children and construct stadiums. You team has recently played against Russia. The score was 1:1. Javadov scored the goal. Sometimes, it is necessary to give up political issues and take interest in sport…
/APA/
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