Arda Turan's Shakhtar Donetsk draws friendly 0-0; coach praises fans, discusses playing in London

Shakhtar Donetsk, under the management of former Turkish international Arda Turan, played to a 0-0 draw against Bursaspor in a friendly match held in Bursa. The game attracted a significant crowd of 36,000 spectators, whose enthusiastic support deeply impressed Turan.

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First of all, I congratulate our girls. They inspire us all. I congratulate them with all my heart.

Following the match, Turan expressed his gratitude to the Bursa public, stating the atmosphere was "magnificent" and provided an experience superior to some Champions League venues. He highlighted the fans' inspiration and the team's appreciation for the opportunity to play in such an environment, calling it a "wonderful experience."

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Today was a wonderful experience for us. What they made us feel is very beautiful. It was a very good preparation match for us. I am very pleased with this preparation match. I am very happy to be here. Thank you very much to the people of Bursa for what they have given us.

Regarding future European home games, Turan indicated that Shakhtar Donetsk is likely to play in London. He explained that while the team wished to play in Turkey, UEFA regulations present significant challenges. "We want to come to Turkey, but UEFA conditions make it very difficult for us," Turan said, expressing regret that they could not play in front of Turkish fans.

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They came to a preparation match like this, it honored us. I can't thank them enough on my own behalf. They are magnificent. I told the players it was a Champions League atmosphere, but you can't find this atmosphere in some stadiums there. Everything was magnificent.

Turan also discussed Shakhtar's ambitions for the Champions League, acknowledging the difficulty for their young team, especially while forming during wartime. He stated their goal is to reach the top 24, emphasizing their commitment despite not being the home team. He also reaffirmed his loyalty to Shakhtar Donetsk, his current club, despite potential future offers from Turkey, citing his commitment to the contract and his belief in loyalty.

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It looks like we will play in London right now. We wanted to come to Turkey, but UEFA conditions make it very difficult for us. Otherwise, it would have been magnificent to play in front of this audience, the audience of Göztepe, Bursa, Eskişehir. There's nothing to do. We are waiting for everyone, our fans in London, the people of Ukraine, Turkish spectators.