Artem Dzyuba and Lokomotiv Moscow: A Season Ahead in the Russian Premier League
Croatian journalist Tomislav Gabelich believes Moscow striker Artem Dzyuba could emerge as the leading scorer in the next Russian Premier League campaign. The prediction comes amid ongoing discussions about Lokomotiv Moscow and the shape of the league heading into a new season. According to Gabelich, Dzyuba’s ambition is clear and unshaken: he wants to be the best, lift trophies, and secure the top scorer honor in the league, aiming for a level of success comparable to the sport’s most celebrated forwards.
Artem Dzyuba is no stranger to the spotlight. The veteran forward, now 34, joined Lokomotiv in February 2023 and quickly became a central figure for the club. In the weeks that followed, he signed a contract extension with the railway club, with provisions for additional renewal through the end of the 2023/24 season. This move underscored Lokomotiv’s intent to lean on Dzyuba’s experience as they navigated the evolving landscape of Russian football, where competition remains intense and the pressure to deliver results is high.
During the previous season, Dzyuba made 13 appearances across all competitions for Lokomotiv. In those outings, he crafted eight goals and added five assists, a tally that showcased his continued capacity to influence games from the frontline. The contribution contributed to Lokomotiv’s overall campaign, reflecting the player’s ability to contribute in multiple ways and persistently threaten rival defenses with his presence and movement.
Lokomotiv Moscow finished the 2022/23 campaign positioned eighth in the league standings, a placement that left the club looking for improvements and a more consistent run in the upcoming season. The club’s management has repeatedly emphasized the importance of building a squad capable of competing at the top of the table, balancing veteran leadership with younger talents who can rise to the challenge when called upon. Dzyuba’s leadership on and off the pitch is frequently cited as a stabilizing influence, a factor that supporters hope will translate into a stronger league performance and deeper runs in cup competitions.
Analysts and fans alike note that Dzyuba’s career arc has included peaks of scoring efficiency and moments of resilience when teams needed him most. His experience in Russian football, paired with a keen understanding of the league’s tactical rhythms, positions him as a potential catalyst for Lokomotiv. As the new season looms, questions persist about how the team will deploy him—whether in a traditional center-forward role, as a target man holding the ball and linking play, or in a more nuanced pairing where he can combine with a roaming strike partner. Whatever formation emerges, the goal remains straightforward: maximize the forward’s goal-scoring opportunities while ensuring that the rest of the squad contributes to a balanced and dangerous attack. Players of Dzyuba’s stature can also inspire younger teammates, raising the collective standard and driving a culture of competition within the squad. [Source: sports24]
Within the wider context of the league, Dzyuba’s presence adds a layer of intrigue as teams adjust to new tactics and the evolving demands of domestic and continental competition. The RPL continues to attract attention for its mix of traditional rivals, tactical experimentation, and the ongoing conversations about youth development and club budgets. Lokomotiv’s strategic planning for the season involves evaluating the squad’s depth, fitness management through a lengthy campaign, and the allocation of resources to ensure that the team can sustain a high level of performance across multiple fronts. Dzyuba’s experience—combined with the club’s support staff and technical leaders—could prove a valuable combination as the campaign unfolds. [Source: sports24]
Observers are watching closely to see how Dzyuba will adapt to the pace and physical demands of the league in the months ahead. The player’s fitness regime, injury history, and ability to maintain form will be critical as the calendar tightens. For Lokomotiv, the objective is clear: translate individual brilliance into team success, climbing the table and moving beyond an eighth-place finish in the previous season. If Dzyuba can sustain consistent scoring and contribute with assists, the club’s chances to challenge for higher positions and domestic silverware will be enhanced. The anticipation surrounding his role reflects a broader belief that, with the right tactics and collective effort, Lokomotiv can rise and redefine their trajectory in Russian football. [Source: sports24]