"If there is no result, I will leave on my own" - Islom Ismoilov on "Neftchi", money in football, Ronaldo, and Cannavaro
Islam Ismailov, head coach of Fergana's "Neftchi" club, shared his thoughts in an interview with Kun.uz about the changes in his team, the difficulties of transitioning to attacking football, state financing of football clubs, and the mentality of young players.
“If there is no result, I will leave myself” - Islom Ismoilov on “Neftchi”, money in football, Ronaldo, and Cannavaro
He also spoke about why he did not take a picture with Cristiano Ronaldo, his attitude toward Fabio Cannavaro's career, his plans to work abroad, and the heaviest loss in his life.
At the age of 33, Islombek Ismoilov became the manager of the country's reigning champion, “Neftchi”. This appointment raised a number of questions for many: will he be able to find a common language with the big-name players at the club? Can he change the team's playing style?
### On becoming head coach of “Neftchi” at the age of 33
There was no fear when I came to the club. If I had been afraid, I would not have taken this path. True, there was a little hesitation. Because I moved directly from the youth national team to a club with big ambitions.
But I have always believed in myself. The people around me gave the right advice. The governor of Fergana region [Khayrullo Bozorov] also expressed his support and showed great confidence in me during our conversations. This also gave extra strength.
### On why he chose “Neftchi” among the Valley clubs
At my age, having offers from three clubs with big goals (“Neftchi”, “Navbahor”, “Andijon”) was a very pleasing situation for me. I am grateful to all of them.
The main reason I chose “Neftchi” is that I am from Fergana myself. We have supported this team since our youth. My father played for “Neftchi” and worked here. Our family's life has also been connected to this club in a certain sense.
This is not disrespect to other teams. I love the place where I was born and raised, and I love “Neftchi”. Choosing another team would have been unfair to myself.
### On how he was received at the club
Of course, these players are different from those in the youth national team. There are Uzbekistan's most prominent, well-known players who have played abroad and in high-level teams.
I understood their situation too. It was not an easy situation for them either. But I believed that with my knowledge, work, and efforts, I could find a way to their hearts.
It was not easy at the beginning. Later, the players began to understand what I wanted. Our relations improved. Now, after nine or ten months, not a single serious conflict has occurred with any player.