Overview
- The National Veterans’ Team of Ukraine confirmed the death after he collapsed during a legends benefit game in Lutsk on Saturday.
- Media reports attribute the death to a heart attack, though an official medical cause has not been announced.
- Polunin earned nine caps for Ukraine in 1995 and later played in Germany for Nürnberg, St. Pauli and Rot-Weiss Essen.
- He had been serving since January 1, 2025 as chief scout for Ukrainian top-flight club Metalist 1925.
- Former clubs and organizations, including FC Karpaty Lviv and Metalist 1925, issued public condolences.