Shakhtar Dream of Champions League Return to Ukraine as London Keeps War in Spotlight

Shakhtar Donetsk, the Ukrainian football champions, aim to return Champions League triumphs to their homeland, but playing away in London helps keep the war-torn nation's plight "visible," according to the club's chief executive, Sergey Palkin. The team will face AEK Athens, Sporting Lisbon, Fenerbahce, and Real Madrid in their upcoming matches, with Stamford Bridge serving as their temporary home.

Ukrainian champions Shakhtar were forced to flee their city in 2014 due to the outbreak of war in the Donbas region, but continued to host European games in western Ukraine until Russia's invasion in 2022. All European club matches and national team games have since taken place abroad.

Palkin believes the switch to London, the "football capital of the world," aids in keeping the Ukrainian cause in the spotlight and reminds people of the ongoing conflict. The club aims to send a message of support to Ukraine and highlight the nation's struggles.

Despite the challenges, Shakhtar have demonstrated resilience. They reached the semi-finals of the Conference League last season and advanced to the last four of the Europa League in 2020. The club remains a breeding ground for Brazilian talent, with 14 players on the current roster hailing from South America.

Young coach Arda Turan, who played for Turkey and Atletico Madrid, sees the opportunity in London as a chance to continue fighting despite the war. He emphasizes the importance of his players and staff, stating that they carry the hopes of the Ukrainian people. The club remains focused on football while dreaming of returning to Ukraine one day.