Shevchenko offered Ukraine job
Andriy Shevchenko has been offered the position of Ukraine head coach, the country’s football federation announced today.
Former AC Milan and Chelsea striker Shevchenko called time on his glittering 18-year playing career in July and had spoken of his desire to go into politics, but the Ukrainian federation (FFU) has decided that they want the 36-year-old to lead their national team after Oleh Blokhin left to take over Dynamo Kiev.
“President of the Football Federation of Ukraine Anatoliy Konkov has decided to invite Andriy Shevchenko to take the post of head coach,” a statement read on the federation’s website.
Shevchenko is the top goal scorer in the country's history, bagging 56 goals in 111 appearances.
The former Chelsea and AC Milan striker captained Ukraine 56 times and guided the former Soviet republic to the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2006.
He does not have any managerial or coaching experience, but the federation are convinced that will not be a problem.
Konkov pointed out that Pep Guardiola won three Spanish titles and two Champions Leagues after joining Barcelona with little experience in management.
The president of the federation said: “Remember – Pep Guardiola achieved incredible results in a few years!
“I’m sure Shevchenko also be able to conquer great football countries as head coach of this country.
“He has enough experience and character.
“The federation, in turn, will ensure to give him all the help he needs with the national team.”
Konkov also thinks Shevchenko’s experience of playing under some of the best managers in the world will help him lead Ukraine to success should he accept the offer.
“Andriy has played for renowned clubs such as the Dynamo Kiev, Milan and Chelsea,” he said.
“They were led by legendary coaches like Valeriy Lobanovskiy, Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho.
“He has had a unique ability to absorb their talent, their knowledge and their experience.”
