Award season in Russian football highlighted a standout figure. Alexander Alaev, the president of the Russian Premier League, was celebrated as the man of the year by many observers and fans who follow the sport closely. In a conversation with Sports24, he reflected on the meaningful contributions and the many moments that defined the season.
One name that repeatedly surfaced in discussions about the year is Sergei Akinfeev. While the idea of a monument at CSKA stadium was debated, Alaev expressed a personal, cautious stance. He acknowledged that such a tribute would be appropriate but emphasized that the decision rests with the club and fans, and not with him alone. The sentiment, shared openly, underscored the respect Akinfeev has earned among peers and supporters alike.
Akinfeev’s career at CSKA Moscow is storied. A CSKA academy graduate, he has accumulated 755 appearances in all competitions for the red-and-blue. His trophy cabinet is formidable: six Russian championships, seven national cups, and the UEFA Cup triumph in the 2004/05 season stand as landmarks of his era. By 2023 he was marking two decades of playing at the highest level, a milestone that speaks to his consistency and longevity at the top of Russian football.
In the current campaign, Akinfeev logged 17 appearances across all competitions for CSKA, conceding 20 goals. After eighteen rounds in the Russian Premier League, CSKA sat seventh in the standings with 28 points. The club was preparing for a subsequent clash with Orenburg, a fixture that would take place in March 2024, continuing CSKA’s quest to climb the table and return to the championship battle that has defined the club for years.
Historically, the year also brought recognition from other figures within the sport. Earlier, Romantsev had named another standout as the best foreign player in the RPL, highlighting the broader talent pool and the international influence shaping the league today. This backdrop of awards and commendations reflects a season rich with achievements, debates, and enduring legacies for clubs, players, and administrators alike. What remains clear is that Akinfeev’s contributions to CSKA and Russian football remain a focal point of discussion for fans and pundits who follow the league year after year, with their conversations often centering on the player’s longevity, impact, and the moments that defined his era.