Former star Arshavin weighs in on coaching paths and the intrigue around Sergei Tashuev
Kairat Andrei Arshavin, the well known former footballer who wore the Zenit, Arsenal and Kazakhstan banners during his glittering career, recently spoke on a popular YouTube channel. In the interview he touched on a surprising coaching connection: Alexander Mostovoy, a respected name in Russian football, is reportedly pursuing a coaching internship with the veteran Fakel coach Sergei Tashuev, who remains a prominent figure in the coaching world at the age of sixty four. The discussion sheds light on how some of Russia’s most recognizable players view the journey from player to coach and the role of mentorship and opportunity in that transition.
Arshavin painted a vivid picture of the shifting coaching landscape. He recalled a moment in the current coaching course where one student asked how Tashuev operates a particular training session. The answer came with a touch of humor and respect. The reply described a scene at the table where the head coach presides and a trusted assistant sits close by. Alex Wenzel, another name familiar to fans who crossed paths on the field, is mentioned as someone who has even shared the pitch with the boss. The story underscores how relationships and proximity to authority can influence the learning environment in coaching programs. The overall takeaway is that the path to coaching often hinges on being noticed and having colleagues who can vouch for one’s understanding of the game.
In early June, the Russian Football Union confirmed that Mostovoy submitted documents aimed at obtaining a UEFA coaching license through the RFU academy. This move marks a deliberate step toward formal recognition of his coaching credentials and readiness to influence the next generation of players. Initial reports indicated a hiccup when Mostovoy missed the initial deadline to submit the required application. Still, the academy acted to ensure his name remained on the list, signaling a flexible and practical approach to credentialing for seasoned professionals who aim to transition into coaching roles. The episode highlights how administrative processes can adapt to accommodate players who have spent significant time abroad and who bring a wealth of experience from different football cultures.
Mostovoy’s career is a reminder of the global nature of football. In Russia he is best known for his performances with Spartak Moscow, a club with a storied history and a passionate following. Yet much of his professional journey unfolded outside the Russian league. He wore the colors of Benfica in Portugal, Strasbourg in France, and Celta in Spain, experiences that broadened his tactical worldview and deepened his understanding of coaching requirements across different footballing systems. This international canvas helps explain why his move toward a UEFA coaching license draws attention from players, coaches, and fans who track career evolutions across borders. The broad arc of his playing days—from domestic success to stints abroad—frames the anticipation around his coaching ambitions.
Industry voices have weighed in on the shift. Former coach Alexander Kerzhakov once commented that Mostovoy places a high value on his relationships with coaches who have firsthand playing experience. The sentiment reflects a broader belief in the coaching world: players who have competed at high levels often bring practical insight to training methods and tactical decision making. This perspective is a touchstone in conversations about who becomes a coach and how their playing background shapes their approach to guiding younger players. The current discussion around Mostovoy thus resonates with a wider narrative about qualification, credibility, and the transfer of on-field wisdom to the training ground. The takeaway is clear: credibility in coaching increasingly depends on a blend of formal licenses and a track record of playing experience, plus a readiness to learn and adapt through formal education and mentorship programs.
For observers in Canada and the United States, the case offers a window into how elite players translate their careers into coaching opportunities across different national systems. The RFU academy’s role in administering UEFA licenses underscores the interconnected nature of football governance in the region, while the emphasis on both practical experience and formal certification mirrors common industry best practices globally. In this context, Mostovoy’s pursuit of a UEFA coaching license serves as a concrete example of how established players map a future beyond their playing days, navigating licensing requirements and leveraging international exposure to bolster their coaching profiles. As tournaments and clubs continue to scout talent and coaching potential, the path from star player to mentor remains a dynamic and ongoing journey that captures the imagination of fans and aspiring coaches alike. This evolution, tracked through official announcements and the observations of seasoned veterans, reinforces the idea that coaching is a professional trajectory built on a blend of experience, education, and the ability to connect with players on and off the field. Attribution: RFU academy announcements and national media coverage.