A glimpse into the mindset of Zafarovich, a Seoul Calcio F.C. Uzbek talent

Zafarovich aged 19 born in Bukhara. Uzbekistán. Crédit: Seoul Calcio FC

In the competitive landscape of local football, a gifted Uzbek player at Seoul Calcio F.C. is quickly making a name for himself. More than his skills on the pitch, Zafarovich's insights reveal a profound understanding of what it means to be an athlete, defining it not by muscles or technique, but by mindset, especially when facing the solitude of training.

"For me an athlete is not someone with muscles or skills, an athlete is defined by his/her mindset, especially when no one is watching, because it is very easy to give up when you are alone," he reflects.

This deep-seated discipline is fueled by a lifelong passion. Having played since childhood, his connection to the sport is so intense that his mood often mirrors his performance or his favorite team's results—a testament to how deeply he is invested.

His idol is Thierry Henry, whose football style he reflects on the pitch. Credit: La 10co

Football, for him, is a stress reliever, a sanctuary where, "when I step in the pitch I forget all the stress problems and depression, I kinda feel free from the world." He plays primarily on the right wing, bringing his unique combination of dedication and flair to the attacking third.

Lessons Learned: Respect and Responsibility

The sport has been a vital teacher, instilling lessons of discipline and hard work. However, the most crucial lesson he cites is respecting others' hardwork. This principle was hammered home during local tournaments when he was yelled at by his peers: "respect our hardwork and play like a man..."

"This gonna get you far in any sport even in life," he notes, underscoring the value of leadership, sportsmanship, and responsibility that football has taught him.

Seoul Calcio F.C.: the turning point

He is the captain, a key player for Matteo Cericca, Seoul Calcio's coach manager. Credit: Seoul Calcio FC

Joining Seoul Calcio F.C. marked his first official team experience, and it has been transformative. The club provided a supportive environment that helped him regain his confidence. He cherishes the friendships and credits his coach and teammates for the positive change.

His most memorable victory was the match against Project F.C., which was their first official team win. Despite sustaining an injury in the game, the passion and spirit shown by his teammates in that moment were "unbelievable," solidifying it as a cherished memory.

Along the experience, when facing pressure, the player turns to his faith. As a Muslim, he draws strength from the Quran, citing the verse: “The believers are those who put their trust in Allah.” (Qur’an 8:2). He focuses on doing his best and leaving the rest to God, a philosophy that successfully helps him manage competitive stress.

He draws inspiration from several football legends, including Neymar and Mesut Özil, but his ultimate idol is the Arsenal icon, Thierry Henry. A passionate supporter of Arsenal F.C., his favorite goal is Reiss Nelson's last-minute winner against Bournemouth—a truly fantastic comeback goal.

A Final Message

This gifted Uzbek winger's journey is a powerful reminder that elite athleticism is rooted in mental strength and a deep value system. His closing advice is simple yet profound: "Keep chasing your goals, believe in yourself and be consistent with your hardwork and put your trust in god, if you are true to your goals you can make it."