Lassina Traoré faces tough decision over future in Ukraine

Shakhtar Donetsk striker Lassina Traoré has spoken candidly about his deep connection to Ukraine and the difficult decision he faces as his contract nears its end in June.

The 25-year-old Burkinabe international joined Shakhtar in 2021 after a successful spell at Ajax and has since developed a profound attachment to his adopted country.

“It’s become my second home. I’ve experienced everything here,” Traoré told Flashscore.

He has embraced Ukrainian culture, enjoying local cuisine and exploring Kyiv. “I really enjoy walking around the streets of Kyiv, it’s simply magnificent,” he said. His bond with the country has been strengthened by the challenges faced by the club and teammates, particularly during the ongoing conflict.

Traoré even sings the Ukrainian national anthem before matches. “By listening to it at the beginning of every match, I’ve grown to love it. I started looking for the meaning of the phrases, I became attached to it. It’s a way of respecting and honoring the country that welcomed you,” he explained.

Despite his affection for Ukraine, Traoré’s future is complicated by practical concerns. He has scored four goals and provided two assists in eight games this season, but injuries have disrupted his campaign. With his family, including a young child, living in Paris, he faces a personal dilemma.

“It would be simpler for me to return to a country that isn’t at war,” he admitted, while acknowledging the emotional challenge of leaving a team he describes as “like a family.”

Traoré’s next move could take him back to Western Europe, with the Netherlands, Belgium, or France among potential options. “I try not to think about it too much, because I can’t even imagine the day when the decision will be made,” he said.

At 25, the striker faces one of the most important decisions of his career, balancing professional ambition with personal attachment and family stability.

🙌 Lassina Traore 🧡

🙏 The forward during the Ukrainian national anthem 🇺🇦#Shakhtar #Ukraine #OleksandriiaShakhtar

🙌 Lassina Traore 🧡

🙏 The forward during the Ukrainian national anthem 🇺🇦#Shakhtar #Ukraine #OleksandriiaShakhtar

pic.twitter.com/Z4sCxya987

— FC SHAKHTAR ENGLISH (@FCShakhtar_eng) March 6, 2026