Yarmolenko: "This is likely my last season" — what it means for Dynamo Kyiv and the national team
The 36-year-old leader of Dynamo and the Ukraine national team, in an interview with a Polish YouTube channel, suggested that the current season could be his last. We break down why these words deserve attention — for the club, the national team and Ukrainian football as a whole.
By Tetiana Suchkova-Ladik
January 23, 2026 · 2 min read
What Yarmolenko said
According to UNN, in an interview with a Polish YouTube channel Andriy Yarmolenko answered questions about his health and career prospects. In his remarks the veteran stressed that he currently considers this season possibly the final stage of his playing career.
At the moment I think this is my last season. We'll see what happens, but right now I think so.
— Andriy Yarmolenko, midfielder for "Dynamo" and the Ukraine national team
About the coach — a joke with clarification
During the conversation Polish journalists also asked the player about his impressions of working with the local coach. At first Yarmolenko allowed himself a joke that immediately turned into a compliment — he emphasized the professionalism and ease of communication.
To be honest, he is the worst coach in my life. Of course, I'm joking. Actually it's very easy to work with him because he is a good professional. We talk a lot about football, about tactics. For me he is a good person, a good coach. It's always easy to work with a true professional.
— Andriy Yarmolenko, midfielder for "Dynamo" and the Ukraine national team
Quick facts
Age: 36 years. Seasonal stats: 20 matches, 4 goals. This statistic should be kept in mind when assessing his physical condition and role in the team.
Why it matters
The statement about a possible end to his career is not just an emotional remark. It has several consequences that are important for the club and the national team:
- Leadership rotation: Dynamo and the Football Federation of Ukraine (FFU) must plan in advance for succession of leadership roles.
- Tactical adjustments: losing a player with many years of experience requires changes to the system and preparation of younger performers.
- Public image: a farewell season or a proper end to a career is important for fans and the club's brand.
What’s next — a practical forecast
There are several realistic scenarios: Yarmolenko may retire this year; he may stay one more season in a part-time player/mentor role; or he may reconsider his decision depending on his health and incoming offers. It is important that the club and the federation have a plan to transfer his experience to young footballers.
For now we have a direct quote and the facts — the decision is up to Andriy. But it is already worth looking more broadly: how a country that is forming new sports leadership cadres under difficult conditions will be able to preserve and pass on the valuable experience of players like him.
