Arda Turan has drawn inspiration from legendary manager Guus Hiddink as Shakhtar Donetsk prepare for their Champions League encounter against PSV Eindhoven on Thursday. The Turkish coach reflected on a pivotal halftime moment during his international playing days, when Hiddink's composed demeanor transformed a tense atmosphere into confidence ahead of a dramatic comeback against Belgium.
The Shakhtar delegation endured a demanding travel schedule to reach the Netherlands, departing from Lviv by bus to cross the Polish border before flying from Rzeszow. Turan acknowledged that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine forces unconventional preparations, with tactical video analysis replacing traditional training sessions during transit. Yet he insisted this adversity strengthens rather than weakens his squad's resolve. "Carrying hope for the Ukrainian people overrides any physical fatigue from our journey," Turan explained.
No Defensive Approach Against Dutch Opposition
Despite facing a prolific PSV attack, Turan rejected the notion of a cautious setup in Eindhoven. Drawing from Dutch football philosophy championed by figures like Johan Cruyff and Frank Rijkaard, the 39-year-old manager demanded attacking intent from his players. Six or seven Shakhtar youngsters will make their Champions League debuts on the night, and Turan aims to instill the same composure that Hiddink once demonstrated from the touchline.
"If you only try to defend against PSV, you will lose," Turan stated bluntly. "We will not park the bus. My players must be brave, attack, and enjoy the match." Shakhtar enter the encounter seeking to build on their strong domestic form and capitalize on their previous experience against the Dutch side from their 2024 meeting.
Turan also paid tribute to former international colleague Ivan Perisic, the 37-year-old PSV veteran, describing him as a living legend. The manager took full responsibility for the result as his team steps onto European football's biggest stage, blending pragmatism with the attacking principles that define elite continental competition.
