Alexander Tarkhanov, once at the helm of Ural, offered his perspective on Leonid Slutsky’s tenure in China, where he now guides Shanghai Shenhua. His comments were reported by Vprognoze.ru.
According to Tarkhanov, the early phase of the season will reveal how Slutsky deploys his squad. He believes Slutsky has the leadership qualities to assemble a competitive group and that the conditions in Shanghai could support building a truly combative side. Slutsky’s triumph in the Chinese Super Cup is noted as a positive indicator of his capabilities. Tarkhanov also remarked that Slutsky is unlikely to introduce revolutionary tactics; rather, he will continue to apply the methods he trusts.
In late February, Slutsky’s Shanghai Shenhua secured the Chinese Super Cup, defeating Shanghai Port 1-0. This cup victory marked Slutsky’s first as head coach of the Chinese club.
Slutsky assumed responsibility for Shanghai Shenhua in December 2023. Before moving to China, his most recent role was with Rubin Kazan. Under his guidance, Rubin Kazan finished near the bottom of the Russian Premier League in the 2021/22 season and faced relegation to the First League.
Slutsky is also recognized for his achievements with CSKA Moscow, where he led the team to multiple domestic triumphs including three Russian Premier League titles along with cup competitions and league super cups.
His international coaching career includes a stint as the head coach of the Russian national team from 2015 to 2016. During that period, Russia finished fourth in their group at the 2016 European Championship before he stepped down from the role.
Earlier, Alexander Mostovoy had offered a critical view of Slutsky’s first award in China, reflecting a broader spectrum of opinions about his work abroad.