A warm welcome was extended to Stoke City’s new signing Maksym Talovierov in a message beginning with, “Today is a special day.”
Maksym Talovierov has made history by becoming the first Ukrainian to play for Stoke City, joining from Plymouth Argyle. His arrival has sparked an emotional response, particularly from the club’s Russian supporters’ group, who see his signing as deeply symbolic beyond football.
The 25-year-old defender has linked up with his new teammates at Clayton Wood after spending the off-season on international duty with Ukraine in Canada. He is known for his deep pride in his homeland, and it’s believed the final confirmation of his transfer was delayed due to increased attacks on Kyiv late last week. Stoke officially unveiled Talovierov on Saturday, announcing a three-year contract.
Ivan Korzh, who helped establish the official Russian Stoke City supporters’ club in 2013, shared a heartfelt message welcoming Talovierov. Now based in Europe after leaving Russia in 2022, Korzh reflected on the significance of the signing for fans like him who oppose the war in Ukraine.
“For the first time ever, our club has signed a Ukrainian player,” Korzh wrote. “I feel so happy that my club has signed not only a great footballer but also someone from a country that is bravely fighting for its freedom and future… This move means something so much bigger.”
Talovierov has already earned eight senior caps for Ukraine, having previously helped their U21 side reach the semi-finals of the 2023 European Championship. After moving to England in January, he impressed with Plymouth and notably scored against Manchester City in the FA Cup.
Speaking earlier this year, Talovierov shared how the war has separated him from his father, Vadym, who remains in Kyiv. Despite the hardship, he explained how focusing on football offers a brief escape and how proud he is of his country and its people.
“This is a hard situation,” he said, “but we try to help our people and win this war as fast as possible.”
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