Foda: We’ll give our maximum in these four Nations League matches

Kosovo national team coach Franco Foda spoke today at a press conference ahead of the four upcoming Nations League matches — against Ireland (September 24), Austria (September 27), Israel (October 1) and Austria again (October 4).

Foda said the team will prepare to the maximum for the challenges ahead, stressing that the goal of him and the players is to seek victory in every match. “We can hardly wait for these matches and we will prepare to the maximum. In every match we go in with the desire and goal of winning,” Foda said.

He also addressed squad absences, mentioning injuries and withdrawals of some players, but stressed that his confidence in the 27 called-up players remains complete. “We are missing some important and experienced players. Also, Rexhbeçaj and Muslija will not be available due to injuries. However, we have 27 players in whom I have full confidence, and I am convinced that with this group we can play good matches,” the coach said.

Foda stressed that the coming days will be important for determining the formation and preparing the team. “This is football: there are injuries, there are departures, but at the same time new opportunities are created for young players. Now it is their turn to seize this opportunity and show their values,” he said.

Part of the conference was also devoted to the decisions of Amir Rrahmani and Florent Hadërgjonaj to withdraw from the national team. Foda revealed that he had been in contact with Rrahmani and had tried to convince him to change his decision, but in the end respected his choice. “Rrahmani contacted me and we talked. I tried to change his mind, but he had made his decision and we must respect it. I thank him for his contribution and wish him all the best going forward,” Foda declared.

Regarding Hadërgjonaj, the coach said he learned of his decision through the media. “Hadërgjonaj did not contact me personally and I was informed of his decision through the media. Of course, his decision must also be respected. However, every player I call up has my full confidence. Every player must understand and accept that the national team call-up gives him the opportunity to be part of the team, but does not guarantee playing in every match. Decisions about who plays are always made in the interest of the team,” Foda said.