PARTICLE OF A SINGLE TEAM

There is no need to introduce Christian Karembeu to the fans. The famous midfielder, world and European champion in the French team, winner of the Confederations Cup and winner of the Champions League has long become a favourite for many. Coming from the Kanak tribe in New Caledonia, Karembeu is famed as one of the toughest midfielders in the history of world football. His main task in the field was always to destroy the opponent's attacks, with which he coped very well.

Playing at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France along with Zidane, Karembeu visited Baku as a FIFA beach soccer ambassador.

In an interview with R+, the famous footballer shared his thoughts about Azerbaijan's preparedness to host European Games, the head coach of the national team, Robert Prosinecki and presidential elections in FIFA.

- We are very glad to see you in Baku. Tell us about your visit to Azerbaijan...

- As you know, I'm a FIFA beach soccer ambassador. Therefore, I had to take part in the draw ceremony for the beach football tournament of the European Games. I should note that I received a very warm welcome in Baku. I want to express my gratitude to everyone through you. You're extremely hospitable people.

- What can you say about the draw itself? How do you assess the chances of the Azerbaijan's national beach soccer team?

- Your team, in a sense, is lucky. You're in a good group. You can deal with Portugal, Switzerland and Ukraine. I spoke to the head coach of your team, Ze Miguel. He told me about the recent results of the team. I think that your beach soccer team will do well in the European Games. The team is experienced enough. In addition, it will have the support of local fans.

- Preparations for the European Games have entered a decisive phase. Will you be present at the Games?

- I would like to. But now I can't say exactly if I will come to Baku. I'll try to visit for at least a few days. I find it interesting to watch beach soccer competitions. I'm familiar with the sport infrastructure. You have a lot of large complexes. The presence of such a large number of sports complexes is a positive factor. Your new stadium is beautiful. The complex for water sports also impresses with its grandeur. All these facilities will contribute to the further development of the sport in your country. I also know of your progress at the Olympics. Therefore, I'm sure that you'll win many medals in the European Games.

- Let's talk about big-time football. Winning the gold medal at the 1998 World Cup, you became an idol for the fans. Why do you think the French team is not so strong today?

- The national team has seen changes. There has been a frequent change of coaches. New players were invited to the team. When you change the team, failure is inevitable. In our time, an atmosphere of goodwill reigned in the team. Each of us was an integral part of a single team. On the field we played as a single team. When I had the ball, my teammates knew beforehand what I would do it and at the same time, I understood them very well too. I think the French team will show itself in a positive way in the next tournament.

- The Azerbaijani national football team is headed by Robert Prosinecki. What can you say about your colleague?

- Prosinecki is my friend. He's not only a great man, but also a football veteran with a bright career. I believe that Prosinecki's work in your team will be successful. He should be given a little time. In a conversation with me, he told me about your national team. He said that AFFA has set him the task to prepare the team for 2018 World Cup qualifiers. It's quite difficult to succeed in this qualifying stage. However, I told Prosinecki that I would like to see the Azerbaijani national team at the European Championships in France in 2016. I wish you to achieve this.

- Such a famed coach as Berti Vogts failed in Azerbaijan. Do you think Prosinecki took a risk when he agreed to lead the national team of Azerbaijan?

- The risk in football is always there. However, one should understand that it's impossible to achieve success in just one month. It takes years to train a good football player. It's also important to be attentive enough. Sometimes a footballer who played well for five consecutive years suddenly becomes different. Prosinecki likes to take risks. In addition, he probably knows the level of the Azerbaijani national team. If you want to succeed, support him.

- What should we do so that we, too, have a football player like Christian Karembeu?

- (Laughs) Everyone should strive to become the best in their field. It's necessary to train day and night. And having succeeded, you have to train even more. You can't be complacent. After training with the team, you have to train individually. If you set a goal, you must work tirelessly and learn.

- Presidential election in FIFA will be held on 29 March. There are two candidates for the top job - your colleague Luis Figo and the current FIFA chief Joseph Blatter. Who would you wish success?

- You're provoking me. Luis Figo is my friend and colleague. He's a great player. And Joseph Blatter is not only a great man, but also my boss. It would be wrong to contrast them. Both want to develop football. Elections are similar to football. It's difficult and impossible to make predictions. Like in football, the result can be anything. Let's wait for the elections. Then we'll find out who won.

- In conclusion, it would be interesting to know your impressions about Azerbaijan...

- The capital of your country Baku is a beautiful city. On the way from the airport I was able to contemplate the city. I especially liked the coast. You have delicious cuisine. I was offered a few dishes. I feel the taste of oriental cuisine. I wish Azerbaijani athletes success in the European Games. See you again in summer.

- Thank you for taking the time for the interview.

- Thank you.