CORNERFLICK
Shakhtar Donetsk’s long-running link with Brazilian football is still driving recruitment, even after years of war forced the club away from its home city.
A model that has lasted
The club added Ryan Roberto from Flamengo this summer in a deal worth about €9 million, taking its total number of Brazilian players to 50. Shakhtar’s connection with Brazil dates back to 2002 and grew sharply under Mircea Lucescu in the 2000s.
Willian, Fernandinho, Luiz Adriano, Taison and Jadson all used Shakhtar as a route into Europe’s top level. Fernandinho later joined Manchester City for around €40 million, while Willian also left for a significant fee.
War has changed the process
Chief executive Serhiy Palkin said the war has forced the club to act faster, expand its scouting in Brazil and sharpen its player analysis. He said Shakhtar no longer sells comfort, but the chance to develop quickly and reach the top level of European football.
About 14 to 15 Brazilians are currently in the squad, which Palkin said helps younger arrivals settle. Pedrinho has also said the presence of fellow countrymen is a major factor in players’ decisions to move to Ukraine.
Shakhtar have been based away from Donetsk since 2014 and now carry out much of their work in Lviv. Their European matches are also played away from home, but Champions League football remains a key part of the club’s pitch to young talent.