Stanislav Cherchesov, once the head coach of the Russian national team and currently leading Ferencváros, weighed in on whether the Russian squad should continue operating while national teams face suspension from international competition. His stance, reported by Match TV, is that there is a case for keeping the team active in some form. Cherchesov acknowledged the gravity of the situation and suggested that the team needs to find a viable path forward, much like the Russian Football Union has shown in other tricky moments.
In the broader football world, the governing bodies have taken decisive action. FIFA and the Union of European Football Associations have barred the Russian national team and all Russian clubs from participating in competitions run by these bodies. The suspension has wide-reaching effects and has sparked extensive debate among fans, players, and administrators about the proper direction for Russian football during this period of exclusion.
Meanwhile, important voices within the Russian football community are evaluating the road ahead. Roman Babaev, the Director General of CSKA Moscow, spoke at a recent session of the Industrial Commission for the Development of the Sports Industry, discussing what the future holds for football in Russia. His remarks highlighted the challenges and opportunities that arise when top teams cannot compete in the official European and global arenas. [Citation: FIFA and UEFA sanctions on Russia] [Citation: CSKA Moscow leadership remarks]
The situation places emphasis on the need for strategic planning at the national level. Stakeholders are exploring ways to maintain the development of young talents, preserve domestic competition quality, and prepare for a return to international participation if and when sanctions are lifted. Analysts note that this period could also accelerate reforms within Russian football governance, youth development pipelines, and the support structure around clubs across the country. [Citation: Industry outlook on Russian football reform]