Ukrainian people need support
Thursday, April 21, 2022
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Shakhtar's Brazilian defender Marlon spoke about his return to the team, his motivation to stay at Shakhtar, the war in Ukraine, and his further career
- You joined the team by accepting Shakhtar's initiative to hold charity matches. Why did you decide to act like that?
- Actually, I came because my teammates are here, and they are like family to me. I’ve enjoyed a warm reception since I arrived here, and I’m grateful for everything they have done for me. To be honest, my parents raised me not only with the help of words, but also with their actions and by telling me that it’s necessary to help others. This is probably the main reason behind my return. Now I'm staying with my teammates, that’s just a noble act. Of course, we must show solidarity and be determined to help other people in such a difficult situation. This is my view of life and gratitude to Shakhtar for the things they did for me. It's just my gratitude.
- Did Roberto De Zerbi talk to you about this project? If so, what did he say?
- To be honest, he didn't talk to me personally. I learned about this project when I was still in Brazil, from Darijo Srna. He called me and asked if I was ready to come, I immediately answered that I was ready. Unfortunately, I could not come right away, as I had things to do in Brazil for my family. Talking about De Zerbi, it’s clear that he is also waiting for what will happen to Shakhtar. We all worry about it.
- What is your personal task and goal for those friendly matches?
- To be with my teammates, to play some spectacular football. To be together and be able to hug one another after each game, maybe to try to distract the guys from what they're going through. Still, serious and terrible things are currently happening in Ukraine. My goal is to be there, to say a friendly word and just support them. Maybe it’ll help them in some way.
- You’ve stayed in touch with the teammates these two months. What were they talking about?
- I talked with Bondar, Matviienko, Sudakov, and Korniienko. They didn't go into detail, but I could see what the situation was like while reading the news. I’m very happy that all is well with them and their families. But, that said, I feel really sad because the Ukrainian people are now going through a tough period and they need help and support.
- What did you feel when you saw your Ukrainian teammates again?
- Those were indescribable emotions. We hugged each other and literally kissed each other. Everyone was really happy. I want to repeat that these guys received me sincerely and very well – I felt at home from day one. The first feeling was unbridled happiness.
- Despite such a short spell at Shakhtar, what can you say about the Ukrainian people and Ukraine, how do you like our country?
- Personally, I saw the Ukrainians’ kindness and their warm welcome, you are also very sincere and devoted. Ukrainians are dedicated to their jobs, their country, and this is what I also try to look for in myself. These are very important factors in the life of every person. From the first day in Ukraine, I’ve improved a lot in this regard.
- You witnessed the beginning of the war in Ukraine. What did you think about when you finally realized that a full-scale war had come to Ukraine?
- It was a terrible fear. To be honest, I am a believer, and from the first day I’ve had hopes that remain with me now. But, of course, from the very beginning we were really disappointed and scared because no one expected this. But I continue to strongly believe that, if God wills, this will all end shortly.
- Are you currently looking for a new club?
- No, I don't think about any clubs now. I already have a career, maybe it's not so long, but still I’ve spent eight years in professional football. I feel secure now as I already received some offers, but presently I try to stay cool-headed and to follow my heart.
- Actually, I came because my teammates are here, and they are like family to me. I’ve enjoyed a warm reception since I arrived here, and I’m grateful for everything they have done for me. To be honest, my parents raised me not only with the help of words, but also with their actions and by telling me that it’s necessary to help others. This is probably the main reason behind my return. Now I'm staying with my teammates, that’s just a noble act. Of course, we must show solidarity and be determined to help other people in such a difficult situation. This is my view of life and gratitude to Shakhtar for the things they did for me. It's just my gratitude.
- Did Roberto De Zerbi talk to you about this project? If so, what did he say?
- To be honest, he didn't talk to me personally. I learned about this project when I was still in Brazil, from Darijo Srna. He called me and asked if I was ready to come, I immediately answered that I was ready. Unfortunately, I could not come right away, as I had things to do in Brazil for my family. Talking about De Zerbi, it’s clear that he is also waiting for what will happen to Shakhtar. We all worry about it.
- What is your personal task and goal for those friendly matches?
- To be with my teammates, to play some spectacular football. To be together and be able to hug one another after each game, maybe to try to distract the guys from what they're going through. Still, serious and terrible things are currently happening in Ukraine. My goal is to be there, to say a friendly word and just support them. Maybe it’ll help them in some way.
- You’ve stayed in touch with the teammates these two months. What were they talking about?
- I talked with Bondar, Matviienko, Sudakov, and Korniienko. They didn't go into detail, but I could see what the situation was like while reading the news. I’m very happy that all is well with them and their families. But, that said, I feel really sad because the Ukrainian people are now going through a tough period and they need help and support.
- What did you feel when you saw your Ukrainian teammates again?
- Those were indescribable emotions. We hugged each other and literally kissed each other. Everyone was really happy. I want to repeat that these guys received me sincerely and very well – I felt at home from day one. The first feeling was unbridled happiness.
- Despite such a short spell at Shakhtar, what can you say about the Ukrainian people and Ukraine, how do you like our country?
- Personally, I saw the Ukrainians’ kindness and their warm welcome, you are also very sincere and devoted. Ukrainians are dedicated to their jobs, their country, and this is what I also try to look for in myself. These are very important factors in the life of every person. From the first day in Ukraine, I’ve improved a lot in this regard.
- You witnessed the beginning of the war in Ukraine. What did you think about when you finally realized that a full-scale war had come to Ukraine?
- It was a terrible fear. To be honest, I am a believer, and from the first day I’ve had hopes that remain with me now. But, of course, from the very beginning we were really disappointed and scared because no one expected this. But I continue to strongly believe that, if God wills, this will all end shortly.
- Are you currently looking for a new club?
- No, I don't think about any clubs now. I already have a career, maybe it's not so long, but still I’ve spent eight years in professional football. I feel secure now as I already received some offers, but presently I try to stay cool-headed and to follow my heart.