Preparatory work is underway in Azerbaijan to establish a new football club.
In a statement to Modern.az, Member of Parliament, head of the Western Azerbaijan Community, Aziz Alakbarov, said that the community will establish a club named "Iravan" or "Western Azerbaijan":
"Undoubtedly, FK "Qarabag" honorably fulfilled its historical mission while Karabakh and our surrounding regions, which are sovereign territories of Azerbaijan, were under occupation. It became both an Azerbaijani sports brand and carried the concept of Karabakh as an Azerbaijani value to the whole world. Most importantly, in every game, it brought the excitement of Karabakh to the people of Azerbaijan. Now we are experiencing the stage of our history and destiny returning to Western Azerbaijan. In such a period, a football club named "Western Azerbaijan" or "Iravan" should be established. Yes, the Western Azerbaijan Community envisages the establishment of such a club. And we believe that this club will be established with the community as its founder. I believe that this year this club will enter the Azerbaijani sports arena and make its mark in a short time."
The head of the community said that the club will also contribute significantly to the idea of returning to Western Azerbaijan.
"Initial steps have been taken in this direction for two years now, and mini-football competitions are held between the districts of Western Azerbaijan at the initiative of the district communities of Western Azerbaijan. These games can also be considered selection games for the new football club to be established. I have no doubt that in the not-too-distant future, we will be cheering for this club in our ancestral lands. That's all for now. Our remaining words will be spoken by our footballers on the green field."
