Baku. 19 October. REPORT.AZ/ Report's interview with FK Sabail striker Edgar Pacheco Rodriguez...
- You have started your professional career at Atlas, in Mexico and played at many different local clubs later on. But eventually, you have left North America and moved to the other part of the world. This must quite a challenge for you…
- Yes. I have played at many teams in Mexico and my first experience outside my home country was in South Korea. It was very interesting, very high-level experience. After that, I played in many countries and now, Azerbaijan is the fifth different country that I have played in. In general, I love to travel and discover different football cultures in different countries. The level of football here, the city, the people – I like everything here. My experience in Azerbaijan has been very interesting.
- Considering that you left your hometown so early, is it fair to say that you struggled to find your place in Mexican football?
- You know, it’s very difficult to play football in North America. The level of football is so high and there are a lot of amazing players playing there. Also, at that time I was so young and everything was different. As a young player, you learn a lot from this kind of periods. I have trained with many great players in Mexico and I have learned a lot from them. Now I try to put that experience in my game.
- Obviously, you have played football in various parts of the world. What differences you have noticed so far in Azerbaijan?
- For example, in Asia, they want to improve their game and that’s why they take a lot of things from Europe. But playing there is really tough because there are a lot of professional players and players that very strong physically. However, in Azerbaijan, more technical football being played here and most of the teams have these kinds of players in the squad. I think the main difference is about this.
- That’s why you left South Korea so early?
- Yes, it was difficult for me. But I had an interesting offer from Bahrain at that time and I decided to leave. I love to make changes!
- I am just wondering, what becomes the most important factor when a footballer makes a move to a club away from his country? Is it the financial side or there is something else…
- No, for me the most thing is to know different cultures. Secondly, I love football and I want to watch how this game being played in various parts of the world. Right now I’m in Azerbaijan and I’m very happy.
- What did you know about Azerbaijan and Sabah before your arrival?
- Not much. That’s why I did a little bit of research on the internet. But now I can see that it’s a very interesting and nice country. The football style, the people – I like everything here. I’m very happy.
- Did anyone or anything help you to adapt your life here in Azerbaijan?
- The friends here. They have been telling me about everything in this country and for me, it’s very important.
- Did you find something particularly difficult to adapt?
- No. I did not have any difficulties. Everything is great and I fell very comfortably here.
- Did you get the opportunity to walk around the city?
- Not yet. But I will.
- Do you spend any time with your Azerbaijani friends?
- Yes, I have started to know some interesting people inside the club and I have a very good relationship with them.
- So far, are you happy with your performances at Sabail?
- Yes, but I know I can give more. Everyone knows that we as players always have to try to do more, so I just try to help Sabail and become an important player for the team.
- You are 28 now. What does the future hold for you?
- You never know what will happen in the future. But I repeat, I’m happy to be in Azerbaijan and to play for Sabail.
- Would you be interested in playing for any other Azerbaijani club after your contract with Sabail ends?
- I can’t say anything about this because I have a contract with this club and everything is very good for me here. I only think about helping Sabail. After that, we will see.
- You mentioned that you are very happy to be living in Azerbaijan and playing for Sabail. If the opportunity arrives, would you consider to finish your career at his club?
- Yes, if Sabail want me to stay, I will be very happy. Why not?
- What do you plan to do once you retire?
- To be honest, I don’t know. I’m just focused on enjoying this moment and after that, we will see.
Kanan ABİD
Photo: Firi Salim