Lincoln City midfielder Ivan Varfolomeev balances new life in England with worries for Ukraine family
Midfielder Ivan Varfolomeev enjoys his role at Lincoln City but remains concerned about the safety of his relatives back in Ukraine.
Ivan Varfolomeev arrived in England as Lincoln City’s record signing, initially unable to speak English and coping with the pressure of expectations. After fleeing Ukraine in 2022, he spent three seasons with Slovan Liberec in the Czech Republic before signing for the Imps, where he contributed to their title-winning campaign and historic promotion to the second tier. Now 22, he reports that his English has improved through daily conversations with teammates and formal lessons, and he feels supported by the club.
Despite enjoying his new surroundings, he remains anxious about his family’s safety in Ukraine, describing the situation there as constantly changing and dangerous. Varfolomeev expressed gratitude to England for its aid to Ukraine and dreams of earning a senior national team call-up. Founder Andrew Todos of Zorya Londonsk praised him as a role model for aspiring Ukrainian players.
Why it matters
The story shows how the war in Ukraine continues to affect athletes abroad and highlights the personal toll on families separated by conflict.
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