Pedrinho Ready to Play for Ukraine National Team: Brazilian Expresses Desire to Help
Ukrainian football club Shakhtar's Brazilian winger Pedrinho has expressed his willingness to represent the Ukraine national team, following a recent online meeting with children across Ukraine.
Pedrinho, a player for the Ukrainian football club Shakhtar Donetsk, recently participated in an online meeting with 55 children from various cities in Ukraine. This event was organized as part of the Pace for Health project, implemented by the Shakhtar Social Foundation under the Erasmus+ Sport program. The project aims to provide psychosocial rehabilitation and development for children through football, making it a significant element of the club's social responsibility.
During the meeting, Pedrinho answered questions from the youth, and one of the most discussed topics was his potential participation in the Ukraine national team. The Brazilian winger expressed his readiness to play for the national team if the opportunity arises. "I have heard a lot of discussions on this topic. It would be an incredible chance. I am genuinely interested in such an offer, and I think I would accept it. I would be happy to help the Ukraine national team," the footballer stated.
Pedrinho also emphasized that Ukraine has become a second home for him during his time in the country. "However, I want to stress that for now, all these discussions remain at the level of rumors," he added, indicating that there have been no official requests or proposals yet.
It is worth recalling that this year, information emerged suggesting that Brazilian legionnaires of Shakhtar, including Pedrinho and Pedro Henrique, could receive Ukrainian citizenship to enable them to play for the national team. Previously, Ukraine's head coach, Serhiy Rebrov, also commented on these rumors but did not provide specific details.
Pedrinho's contract with Shakhtar has been in effect since July 2021, when he transferred to the club from Benfica for a fee of 18 million euros. From the summer of 2022 until June 2024, he played for the Brazilian club Atlético Mineiro, but he is now once again part of Shakhtar.
In the current season, Pedrinho has showcased impressive results, playing 32 matches at the club level, where he scored seven goals and provided nine assists. These achievements highlight his importance to the team and the potential he could bring to the national squad.
Additionally, it is important to note that the Ukraine national team has already incurred financial losses of two million euros due to failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, underscoring the necessity of strengthening the team with new players like Pedrinho.
Thus, Pedrinho's desire to play for the Ukraine national team could represent a significant step in the development of Ukrainian football if it becomes a reality. As fans closely follow his career, they hope for positive news in the near future.