Mykhailenko: "A scout from London's Arsenal was sitting in the stands - they were watching someone"

The head coach of the Ukrainian youth national team (U-19) Dmytro Mykhailenko shared whether European scouts approached him after Euro-2026.

— Did European scouts reach out to you during the tournament or after its completion with inquiries? Even if you don't want to name specific names or clubs — was there at least some basic preliminary interest?

— They didn't contact me directly, it doesn't really concern coaches — all the guys now have their own agents. But at such tournaments, there are always dozens of scouts present.

We were told that, for example, a scout from London's Arsenal was sitting in the stands — they were watching someone, someone caught their interest. They take notes. It's immediately noticeable who stands out. But personally, no one approached us, we didn't see anyone at the hotel.

— There were rumors earlier about your appointment to the U-21 national team. You commented on them and said that you couldn't say anything until other contracts were in effect. Now that Unaí Melgosa has officially left his position — could you confirm that you will lead the youth team?

— I can't say anything specific about it right now, honestly. I just returned from the tournament. It's better to address all questions to the UAF.

— So, as I understand it, there is currently also no final clarity on who will take this team to the U-20 World Cup next summer? You or another coach.

— I think my answer to this question will be identical to the previous one. In reality, we first need to gather together and make a decision. I think there is still plenty of time to do this calmly.