Former head coach of the Russian national team Stanislav Cherchesov has spoken about the ongoing contract situation involving Spartak Moscow defender Georgy Dzhikia, expressing hope that the matter will be resolved in a positive way. His remarks to Match TV reflect a cautious optimism and a belief that there are still nuanced details to understand before any final conclusions can be drawn.
Cherchesov noted that he knows Dzhikia personally and emphasized that it is especially disappointing when issues remain unsettled and then become public. He declined to comment definitively on the contract dispute, stating that there are unexplained elements that everyone in the coaching circle is aware of. He underlined the importance of keeping discussions discreet until all sides fully disclose their positions, and he urged patience as the situation evolves.
Georgy Dzhikia joined Spartak Moscow in 2017 and has been part of a successful era for the club, contributing to major achievements including the domestic league title and the Russian Cup. In the current season, the defender has appeared in six Russian Premier League matches, averaging about 72 minutes per appearance. His latest league appearance was in the match against Krasnodar, played on September 2, which ended 0:2. Dzhikia has not featured in the National Cup since the game against Dynamo Moscow on October 4, a gap that has fueled speculation about his future with the team.
His contract with Spartak is set to expire in June 2024. The player’s representative, Vadim Shpinev, stated in a recent interview that Dzhikia will not be signing a new contract while Guillermo Abascal remains in charge of the club. This development points to a strategic shift within Spartak as they evaluate the squad and explore longer term plans under the current coaching regime.
The broader discussion around Dzhikia’s status has drawn comments from other figures connected to Russian football. Shamil Tarpishchev has weighed in on the situation, raising questions about Abascal’s approach to selecting players and handling delicate contract negotiations. The ongoing dialogue highlights how managerial strategies and contract dynamics can intersect, affecting team composition and morale as the season moves forward. The dynamic at Spartak underscores a common challenge in modern football where club leadership, coaching staff, and players must align on goals, form, and financial considerations for the club to remain competitive.
As observers look ahead, attention will focus on whether Spartak chooses to extend Dzhikia’s tenure or pursue alternative avenues in defense. The outcome will likely depend on the club’s assessment of his fitness, form, and long-term value to the squad, as well as the availability of other players who can fill the same role at a similar or better level. In the meantime, Cherchesov’s measured stance serves as a reminder of the importance of discretion and the professional norms that govern high-stakes contract talks in Russian football. The case also illustrates how past achievements, current performance, and leadership decisions combine to shape a club’s direction during a critical phase of the season. [CREDIT: Match TV]