Escape from Kyiv: Paulo Fonseca and Family Find Safety
Football manager Paulo Fonseca and his loved ones have successfully fled the conflict in Ukraine. A convoy of three coaches, organized by the Portuguese embassy, transported approximately fifty Portuguese citizens, including the Fonseca family, out of the besieged capital, Kyiv. Their arduous journey, spanning countless hours and kilometers, is currently taking them through Moldova. Upon reaching Romania, the embassy will provide temporary accommodation in a hotel before arranging their flight back to Portugal.
Gratitude Amidst Hardship: Katerina Fonseca’s Message
Katerina Fonseca, paulo’s wife, took to Instagram to express her heartfelt gratitude to their global network of supporters. In a poignant message, she acknowledged the overwhelming wave of support, prayers, and assistance received during their darkest hours. “You are absolutely amazing,” she wrote, emphasizing the profound impact of this solidarity.
Katerina’s message also conveyed the immense emotional toll of the experience. “My family and I are safe now,” she shared, but added, “I will always remember your kindness, every hand that helped us, every word.” The trauma of the past few days, marked by fear, pain, and tears, was palpable in her words.
Despite the harrowing ordeal, Katerina’s message concluded with a powerful declaration of love for Ukraine, juxtaposed with a condemnation of the “criminal war” that has shattered the nation.
From the Pitch to Peace: An Interview with Sergiy Rebrov on the Fonseca Family’s Escape
The football world collectively breathed a sigh of relief this week when news broke that FC shakhtor Donetsk’s former manager, Paulo Fonseca, and his family had successfully fled the besieged Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Thier harrowing journey, documented poignantly by Fonseca’s wife, Katerina, on Instagram, has resonated with fans worldwide. Today, we’re joined by former Ukrainian footballer Sergiy Rebrov, who has experienced firsthand the impact of war, to discuss this latest chapter in a conflict that has left an indelible mark on the nation’s soul.
moderator: Sergiy, thank you for joining us today. This situation deeply affects the Ukrainian people, and Paulo Fonseca’s story has highlighted the vrey real and terrifying struggles faced by those caught in the crossfire.What were your initial thoughts upon hearing the news of his escape?
Sergiy Rebrov: As a Ukrainian,my heart goes out to Paulo,his wife Katerina,and their children. No one should ever have to experience the fear and uncertainty they faced.This conflict has torn families apart, shattered lives, and left an unfathomable scar on our nation. It’s a relief that they’re safe now, but their journey serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing suffering endured by so many.
Moderator: The image of coach Fonseca being whisked away in a convoy with other Portuguese citizens underscores the international coordination required to provide such critical assistance during wartime. What role do you believe the global sports community can play in offering support to Ukrainian athletes, coaches, and their families caught in this crisis?
Sergiy Rebrov: The sports community has a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. We need to amplify the voices of those affected,advocate for peace,and provide tangible support wherever possible.
This can range from organizing fundraising initiatives to offer financial aid, providing shelter and logistical assistance to displaced athletes, and creating opportunities for Ukrainian sports personalities to share their stories and raise awareness about the ongoing crisis. Every act of support, no matter how small, can make a difference.
Moderator: katerina Fonseca expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of global support, highlighting the power of humanity in the face of adversity.Do you believe such expressions of solidarity translate into tangible progress on a political level?
Sergiy Rebrov: It’s essential to acknowledge that international solidarity alone won’t bring an end to this barbaric war. However, it does exert pressure on political actors and sends a clear message that the world will not stand idly by while innocent lives are lost.
Moreover, it provides hope and encouragement to the Ukrainian people, reminding them that they are not alone in this fight for their freedom and sovereignty.
Moderator: Sergiy, what message would you like to convey to Paulo Fonseca and his family as they navigate the difficult journey ahead?
Sergiy Rebrov: Paulo, Katerina, and your children, please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of the entire Ukrainian sporting community. Your resilience and strength are an inspiration to us all. We pray for peace, for healing, and for a future where families no longer have to flee their homes in fear.
Moderator: Thank you, Sergiy, for your powerful words and insights. This situation is a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of global unity in the face of aggression. We extend our thoughts and prayers to Paulo Fonseca, his family, and all those affected by this ongoing tragedy.
We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and reflections on this important topic. How do you believe the global sports community can best support those impacted by this conflict?
