Maxim Mikhailov previews the men's 4th Rd
Quotes
Luxembourg, November 16, 2020. With the 2nd Round of the CEV Champions League Volley 2021 now in the rear-view mirror and with the 4th Round - Pool Phase fast approaching, we have asked Russian star and Zenit Kazan player, Maxim Mikhailov, to join us on the latest episode of the Ace Space Podcast to discuss the upcoming season and more. Here are some of her top quotes from the conversation.
On season 2021"I think 2021 will be an interesting season as in Russian championship comes a lot of famous players so it maybe even stronger than before"
On what went wrong in 2020"We had some problems, one of the problems was that I played as a Receiver. Usually I play as an Opposite and I need some practice but we didn't have time for practice, with a lot of games. That was one of the reasons why we played bad in the Champions League. It was a bad experience for us but we will do something to change this situation."
Returning to the top"I believe we can achieve again of course, I want, and we will work hard - maybe harder than before. The team does want to return, that is for sure.""
On Toyko 2020"We had a lot of tournaments last year and when I heard about the change of dates it was during the season and I think only about the season. I think it is not bad for me because this will give me some more experience to play as an Opposite before the Olympics as this is where I will play for the National Team."
On how a Olympic year is different“It is different because our championship prepares a special schedule for us to have time for the Olympic Games. Sometimes these seasons are also shorter.”
What does he put the Zenit KAZAN success down to"We try to play hard every game. Zenit KAZAN is one of the best clubs because they want to win everything. I play here for 10 years and if I did not enjoy it I would change the club."
On making the Team of the Decade""Of course it is a pleasure for me because it is really great Coaches who chose me as Opposite. This makes more motivation and inspires me to work harder. But for me it is more important to win something."
On winning Olympic Gold at London 2012"It was important that we win this tournament because it was the first time in Russian history. It was the best atmosphere, especially as we knew that Volleyball was not such a popular sport in England."