Vladimir Alekno, who previously led the Russian national volleyball team, shared his views on Leonid Slutsky, Kazan’s former coach, during a conversation with Match TV. Alekno spoke candidly about his relationship with Slutsky and offered a measured take on the manager’s recent media activity.
“I know Leonid Viktorovich quite well. He treats me well, and Slutsky is a thoughtful and capable man with a sharp mind,” Alekno remarked. He defended Slutsky against any suggestion of incompetence, emphasizing that Slutsky is a bright, intelligent person with clear reasons behind his actions.
“Is it a show? Leonid Viktorovich is far from being foolish. This is his decision, and he knows what he’s doing. I will not pass judgment. If he makes this choice, it is because he believes it is necessary,” Alekno added, framing Slutsky’s moves as deliberate and purposeful. He also advised audiences not to overreact to media appearances, noting that some broadcasts are meant to entertain rather than present a serious analysis.
Earlier reports note that in November 2022 Slutsky stepped down from Rubin’s head coach role. Under his leadership, Rubin finished 15th in the Russian Premier League and ended up relegated to the First Division, a status the club hadn’t tasted since the 2002 season. By the end of the following season, Kazan had climbed back to the top tier with Rashid Rakhimov taking the helm as coach.
Today, Slutsky often appears as a guest on various entertainment programs, expanding his public presence beyond the volleyball arena. His media engagements have become a topic of discussion in sports circles, with some observers scrutinizing how such appearances intersect with his coaching career. The topic has sparked debate about the balance between media exposure and professional responsibilities.
Historically, Slutsky has faced criticism from some voices in the football community. One notable critic, George Despotovic, questioned Slutsky’s approach to people in his professional life, adding to the ongoing conversation about public perception and leadership style. The dialogue continues to unfold as Slutsky navigates his evolving role in the public sphere and in competitive sport, with supporters and critics alike weighing the impact of his choices on teams and fans.
Overall, Alekno’s comments reflect a nuanced view of Slutsky, acknowledging his intellectual acuity while recognizing the contentious nature of his recent public activities. The exchange underscores how former colleagues interpret leadership decisions, media strategy, and the responsibilities that come with high-profile positions in sport.