Alexander Kerzhakov speaks about mental health and coaching career
Russian football coach Alexander Kerzhakov weighed in on the discussion surrounding Artem Dzyuba, Moscow Lokomotiv’s forward, and the topic of depression. He stressed that he had witnessed the condition firsthand, noting that while he might not have personally felt it in every moment, he understands the gravity and dangers associated with it. Kerzhakov described depression as a serious, painful condition that can be treated, and he encouraged openness about admitting it to oneself. He emphasized that seeking help is not something to fear, but a necessary step toward recovery [Citation: Nobel Arustamian YouTube channel].
In early February 2023, Kerzhakov took the helm of the Cypriot club Karmiotissa. Under his leadership, the team played seven matches, recording two victories, four losses, and one draw. After this stretch, the Russian coach decided to leave his post on his own terms, concluding his stint with the club. This period marked a transitional phase in his managerial career as he explored opportunities beyond the Cypriot league.
Kerzhakov’s most recent club in Russia was Paris Nizhny Novgorod, where he served as head coach and helped the club report an eleventh-place finish in the final season of the Russian Premier League. He departed in June 2022, and his leadership had contributed to the club’s standing during that campaign. The move followed an ongoing pattern of career shifts as Kerzhakov pursued new challenges within the professional football world [Citation: Nobel Arustamian YouTube channel].
Looking back, Kerzhakov acknowledged a personal hesitancy about leaving Russia, a hesitation tied to a broader concern over his own desires and professional direction. He indicated that such considerations were not uncommon for someone who has invested years in the domestic game, yet he remained focused on balancing ambition with practical decisions about where to coach and live. The reflection pointed to a larger theme in football leadership: the tension between personal comfort and the push to explore opportunities abroad, while maintaining a commitment to family, fans, and team success [Citation: Nobel Arustamian YouTube channel].