Ukraine midfielder Mykhailo Mudryk is determined to compete in Euro 2024 despite the ongoing attacks on his home city of Krasnograd by Russian missiles. Along with 12 other Ukrainian players, including Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko and Bournemouth’s Ilya Zabarnyi, Mudryk shared his concerns in a video produced by the nation’s football association.
The situation in Ukraine has been dire since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Mudryk expressed that his city has been bombarded with missiles continuously, but his parents remain in Krasnograd, holding onto hope and supporting Ukraine’s fight for victory.
The devastation caused by the war is deeply felt by many players, as Dynamo Kyiv striker Mykola Shaparenko revealed that his childhood village was completely destroyed by Russia. The resilience and determination of these players to represent their country on the football field despite the challenges they face is truly commendable.
The upcoming European Championship will see Ukraine face Romania in their opening match in Germany. The significance of this tournament goes beyond just football for the Ukrainian team, as they play not only for victory on the pitch but for the freedom and resilience of their nation off the field.
Andriy Shevchenko, the former Chelsea striker and current president of Ukraine’s football association, emphasized the importance of the tournament for the cities and people of Ukraine. While the desire to host the Euros is strong, the country is currently fighting for much more – their freedom and survival in the face of conflict.
The UAF made a plea to all Euro 2024 countries to support Ukraine in any way they can, recognizing that football, like all sports, is not separate from politics. The call for solidarity and assistance from the international community underscores the gravity of the situation in Ukraine and the impact it has on the world of sports.
As Mykhailo Mudryk and his fellow Ukrainian players prepare to take the field at Euro 2024, their courage and resilience serve as a reminder of the power of sport to unite people in the face of adversity. Their determination to compete despite the challenges they face is a testament to the strength and spirit of the Ukrainian people during these difficult times.