Ukrainian teen footballers train with Leeds United
The teens from Kharkiv team up with Leeds United as part of a week of sport and cultural activities.
Teenage footballers from Ukraine's FC Metalist Kharkiv recently trained with Leeds United as part of a week-long program of sports and cultural events.
The youth team's visit to Leeds underscores the partnership between Leeds and Kharkiv, which became official sister cities following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This bond was established with the goal of forging an "enduring international connection."
The Under-15 players from FC Metalist Kharkiv began their visit with a training session led by Leeds United coach and former Premier League player Brian Deane. Deane commented, "I like to think that sport overcomes everything and it's been an absolute pleasure to be involved."
Despite a journey of over 30 hours from their home city and the challenge of a language barrier, the players quickly engaged with the coaching session provided by the Premier League club.
Danylo Pashchenko, coach for FC Metalist Kharkiv, observed, "I can see the boys are already very engaged and very excited. It's a nice change of pace and scenery for them. It is a great pleasure to work with Brian Deane and to play alongside him."
Egor, one of the teenage players, shared, "For me, football is a very important part of my life. I am a goalkeeper and it is a very important position in the field." His teammate, Mykyta, added, "I am learning with the sport and I am trying my best to achieve all my goals. I hope that in the future my dreams will come true."
The trip was organized by members of Leeds' Ukrainian community and the Leeds International Aid charity, with support from Leeds United.
Alex Sobel, MP for Leeds Central and Headingley, who arranges welcome events for Ukrainian visitors to the city, noted that the visit included a friendly match between the Kharkiv teenagers and Leeds United's Under-15s. Sobel stated, "I think it shows there is still international solidarity after four years for the people of Ukraine and Kharkiv with Leeds. It shows that the city stands with them. Football is a global sport and brings everyone together."