‘I’m so proud to be Ukrainian’
Manchester City defender Oleksandr Zinchenko gave an emotional interview after his side’s dramatic final day title win against Aston Villa.
Man City won the title on the final day of the season
Zinchenko was a second half substitute as City came from two goals down to win 3-2 and secure a fourth Premier League title in five seasons under Pep Guardiola.
The midfielder, converted to left back, has been through an extremely difficult spell away from the pitch since the turn of this year following the Russian invasion of his homeland Ukraine.
Zinchenko in particular has been active on social media to spread awareness of the atrocities going on in the country and expressing his support and love for Ukraine.
FOOTBALL! https://t.co/YeOlX0dAKX
— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) May 22, 2022
‘I want to die for these people and all this support’
During the celebrations, an emotional Zinchenko could be seen holding a Ukrainian flag while also wiping away his tears in an emotional message to the world.
After helping his side to win the league, the 25-year-old reiterated his love for the country and said that when possible, he wanted to take the league trophy to his homeland.
“It’s unforgettable emotions for me,” he told Sky Sports.
“For all Ukrainians, who at the moment are starving, they’re surviving in my country because of Russian aggression. I’m so proud to be Ukrainian.
“I would love to one day bring this title to Ukraine for all Ukrainian people because they deserve it.”
"I will NEVER forget this, never in my life" 💙
Oleksandr Zinchenko talks through his emotions… pic.twitter.com/LRF4aOzmrm
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 22, 2022
Zinchenko also thanked the club for all the support they have shown him during an extremely difficult time for him and his family.
He added: “It means everything for me, honestly.
“I want to die for these people and all this support because what people gave me, what they have done for me during the toughest period of my life, I’m so appreciative and I will never forget this.”
Related links:
- Man City apologise to Robin Olsen after he was assaulted during pitch invasion
- Gary Neville aims dig at Jamie Carragher in commentary for title-winning Man City goal
- Man City win fourth Premier League title in five years
