A 13.7 million euro transfer fee brought Ruslan Malinovskyi to Atalanta in July 2019, marking a significant step in a career defined by powerful long-range shooting. Since beginning his journey in Zhytomyr, the attacking midfielder has competed across several European leagues, establishing himself as a consistent specialist in set-piece situations and technical playmaking for both club and country.
Early Development and Domestic Success
Born in 1993, Malinovskyi started his footballing path at the local side Polissya Zhytomyr, working under manager Serhiy Zavalko. His professional progression saw him move to Sevastopol on a loan deal beginning in September 2012, where he signed a one-and-a-half-year contract.
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The midfielder transitioned to the Belgian Pro League, eventually helping secure a league title with Genk in the 2018–19 season. Following his move to Atalanta, he quickly made an impact in the UEFA Champions League, scoring against Manchester City in October 2019. His time in Italy was highlighted by multiple individual accolades, including Serie A Player of the Month honors in May 2021 and February 2022. He also reached the Coppa Italia final with the club in 2021. Later career moves included a period with French side Marseille and a return to Italy with Genoa, where he signed permanently in January 2024.
International Representation
Malinovskyi debuted for the Ukrainian national team on 31 March 2015 against Latvia. He scored his first international goal in October 2018 during a friendly match against Italy. His national team involvement has spanned several major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2020, where he featured in four of Ukraine's five matches during their run to the quarter-finals. In 2024, he received a call-up for the UEFA Euro 2024 squad.
Fast facts
- Born: 4 May 1993, Zhytomyr
- Citizenship: Ukraine
- Primary Position: Attacking midfielder
- Major Trophy: Belgian Pro League 2018–19
- Notable Transfer: Atalanta, 16 July 2019
- International Debut: 31 March 2015
Questions readers ask
Which international tournaments has Malinovskyi played in?
He represented Ukraine at UEFA Euro 2020 and was selected for the squad at UEFA Euro 2024.
What individual awards has he received in Serie A?
He was named Serie A Player of the Month twice and won Serie A Goal of the Month in February 2022 and January 2026.
