Andrea Maldera: I had offers from England and Italy
Andrea Maldera revealed he turned down opportunities in top leagues to lead the Ukraine national team.
Ukraine head coach Andrea Maldera has opened up about the details behind his appointment as the national team's manager. The Italian tactician admitted that he had received offers to work in top leagues across Europe before accepting the role with the Ukrainian side.
Maldera noted that he was in no rush to make a decision, as he was waiting for a unique project to come along. He ultimately found that opportunity in the prospect of managing the Ukraine national team.
I had offers to work in England or Italy, but I wasn't in a hurry to decide. I was waiting for something special – and it happened with Ukraine. I told Andriy that I really value his courage. Being a foreigner in such a situation is not easy, and I had never worked as a head coach at the top level. The very fact that I was considered was already something special for me. Andrea Maldera
Maldera highlighted the trust shown by Andriy Shevchenko, who brought him into the role despite his lack of extensive experience as a head coach at the top level.