Henrikh Mkhitaryan doesn’t rule out possibility of returning to the Armenian league – Armenpress' exclusive interview
4 minute read
In the final match of the Champions League group stage, Inter Milan secured a dominant 3-0 home victory over Monaco. The match saw full participation from the former captain of the Armenian national team, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was recently named Armenia’s Footballer of the Year for 2024 and just turned 36.
In the 67th minute, Mkhitaryan received the ball in his own half, sprinted nearly 50 yards towards the opponent’s penalty area, and struck a powerful shot. However, Monaco’s goalkeeper was well-positioned and managed to save it. Nonetheless, Lautaro Martínez pounced on the rebound, scoring his third goal of the match, completing his hat-trick, and putting an end to any doubts about the game’s outcome.
After the match, Henrikh Mkhitaryan found time for a brief conversation with Armenpress in the mixed zone.
- How is your physical condition after your recent injury, Henrikh?
- You tell me, how did I play? (smiles)
- I think you played well. You provided an assist. Too bad that you couldn’t score a goal.
- I also think I played well today. My physical condition allows me to play full matches. I don’t recall having a real scoring opportunity though.
- Your contract with Inter is valid for this season and the next , isn’t it? Does playing at this level open discussions about an extension?
- Actually, there is an option to extend the contract for another year. If both parties agree at the end of the current contract, it will be automatically extended for one more season.
- Would you consider playing in Armenia for a year or two at the end of your career, bringing joy to local fans?
- (smiles) Is this question just for you, or will it be published?
- Of course, it will be published. Besides, in recent years, Armenian clubs have achieved some success in European competitions. Several players have already returned or are returning. For example, Varazdat Haroyan (current captain of the national team, recently joined FC Pyunik)…
- In football, nothing can be excluded.
- So, you do not exclude the possibility of playing in Armenian league.
- I do not exclude that chance. This is football.
- Henrikh, it has become difficult to buy a jersey with your number at Inter’s fan store. Do you know why?
- I think that is a good sign. It means there is demand, and people are buying them constantly. I guess I am not playing too badly, right? (smiles)
- I must say that in the first half, according to Opta stats, you had the lowest efficiency rating among Inter’s midfielders. However, after your assist, the numbers improved.
- So, do you judge my game based on these statistics? I do not think that is entirely accurate or fair.
- I agree. In any case, you played the full 90+ minutes and made that incredible run…
- I am very happy about that. I feel appreciated.
- Wishing you success ahead of the Milan derby.
- Thank you.
Interview and photos by Harutyun Tsatryan