Andriy Shevchenko, a Milan great and former Genoa coach, appeals for an end to the conflict in Ukraine and explains why his mother and sister refuse to leave. ‘We demand freedom to defend our houses,’ said the group.
The 45-year-old played for Milan for eight years before returning to the league as a coach with Genoa from November 2021 to January 2022.
He read a video message that was shown before last night’s Coppa Italia semi-final between Milan and Inter at San Siro.
He has now talked live on Sky Sports UK, revealing that he is split between wanting to return home and join the fight and realizing that he can do more good in London by raising awareness and cash.
“It is a thing of pride to be Ukrainian. It is not a good time for us as a people, and for my family,” Shevchenko said.
“At the moment, my mother and sister are still trapped in Kyiv, where unspeakable things have transpired. People are dying, children are dying, and missiles are aimed at our homes.
“This war must end. We need to find a method to put an end to the conflict.”
Shevchenko admitted that he tried to persuade his family to flee after Russia invaded, but they refused.
“Like the majority of Ukrainians, my mother and sister are refusing to go; they are staying put to fight for our freedom and our soul.”
“We’re a united people, and we’re a united country right now. There is a lot of assistance available; families try to share meals with the soldiers in order to assist the troops.
“This is a terrible period in our history, yet the people speak with one voice because we all want independence. We have refugees, and we require humanitarian assistance. We require medical and food assistance. I feel like I can do a lot here, and I intend to.”
