Andriy Maldera: "There are absolutely new names in the list of footballers who will be called up to the national team of Ukraine"

The head coach of the Ukrainian national team Andriy Maldera shared his expectations for the team's upcoming matches in the Nations League in an interview with the YouTube channel "Vzirna" and also stated that midfielder Mykhailo Mudryk may return to the national team squad.

— Andriy, let's start with the UPL. How many Ukrainian Premier League matches have you watched so far this season?

— It's hard to give an exact number, but I would like to cover even more clubs, get to know more coaches and players, and better understand the UPL. It is crucial for me to be here, be in the process, and stay close to the people. It's not just a job, it's a part of my life, it's all natural.

— Were you surprised by any players or teams in the first three rounds?

— Watching matches gives me a lot of information to reflect on. I rely on my experience, but when you watch the games directly at the stadium, it reveals a broader picture. Ukrainian players have their own recognizable style, but now interesting playing philosophies are emerging. For example, Zorya Luhansk - the team acts completely differently from "Poltava", "Shakhtar" or "Karpaty". It's important for me to feel this, and I understand how difficult it is for coaching staff and players right now - constant relocations, complex logistics. I treat everyone with great respect because I know how hard they work.

— Let's move on to the national team. The team will soon start in the Nations League - four matches during one camp. How many players do you plan to call up? Maybe an expanded list?

— Approximately 29, 30, or 31 players. Somewhere in that range. We need to be fully prepared for the format of four matches. Of course, the workload will be enormous, but at the same time, it's an opportunity for players to show themselves. I will need all the called-up players, and each of them will definitely get their playing time. For those who want to establish themselves in the national team, four matches in ten days is an ideal opportunity because I will have to resort to rotations. I want to see all the players in action.

— Many players currently lack regular playing practice, some are without a club at all. What do you think about this situation?

— Indeed, the current stretch of the season is tough because while the transfer window is open - some players are in a suspended state. Some are waiting for other offers, some are deciding on a new club. But I am constantly in touch with everyone - those who play regularly and those who don't, and I'm not even talking about the injured - that's a separate pain. I emphasize to the guys: it's very important to give your all in every training session right now because physical readiness is the foundation. But equally important for me is motivation - the desire to fight for the national team. I keep my finger on the pulse.

— What were your emotions when you read the news that Mykhailo Mudryk's disqualification has been overturned and he can return to football? Can he play, or are you counting on him already?

— Having a player of Mudryk's caliber at your disposal or not is an obvious choice. 100% better to have him. We are all incredibly happy about this news. Of course, we remember that Mudryk missed almost two years, I am waiting for him and I am not going to rush because returning after such a break is not easy. But for the Ukrainian national team, he is a player with tremendous potential. He is an incredibly important player, so I am very happy.

— Should we expect him in the national team squad at the upcoming camp?

— I have high hopes that he will be with us at the upcoming camp.

— How many new names should we expect in the list of called-up players for the Nations League match?

— We are monitoring many players. At least three or four new players will appear in this cycle. I am very eager to see them in action. There are completely new names.