Henrikh Mkhitaryan: I got number 22

30-08-10 18:07:32

Brand new Shakhtar’s player Henrikh Mkhitaryan talked to the press office of the club.

- What emotions do you feel after signing a contract with Shakhtar?
- This is a very important step for me. A very important step in terms of my improvement as a player, the path to a great football.  Shakhtar Donetsk is a very strong team, and it will be very important for me to fight for a place in the starting line-up.

-  Was Shakhtar’s participation in the Champions League a decisive factor when you signed a contract or was it just one of the main reasons?
- Obviously, it is not for that cause, but the Champions League is very important. Probably every player dreams once in his career to take part in matches of that level, he dreams to come on the pitch to the Champions League anthem... But playing in this tournament is not only pleasant, but I think it is rather difficult too.

- What are your expectations from the first match in The Pitmen’s shirt?
- I have big expectations. Obviously, one can not be one hundred percent sure that if you move to Shakhtar, then you are immediately guaranteed to play in the first team. First of all, we must show good football ourselves in training to win a place in the starting line-up.

- A new club, you will have more competition ...
- Of course, I understand that. But I am always ready to fight and compete, because it will benefit both me and the team. My teammates at Metallurh maybe a little upset due to my departure, but I thank them for  wishing me luck in the new club and in a new so-called "football life".

- Have you decided upon the squad number?
- Yes, I got number 22!

FC Shakhtar
Press Office