Football analyst Andrey Sozin criticized the on-air program hosted by coach Leonid Slutsky and Lokomotiv Moscow striker Artem Dziuba. The remarks were broadcast by Vprognoze.ru.
Sozin argued that Dzyuba’s activity on YouTube, his commentary style, and public persona should be subject to ethical review by the Russian Football Union (RFU). He noted that Dzyuba is both a football player and a public figure who interviews fellow players, adding that some of his statements were insulting and used provocative language during conversations on camera.
According to Sozin, Dziuba appears unaware of the transgression involved when he directed a rude remark at a journalist during the latest incident. He suggested that Dziuba’s participation amplified the controversy and created a perception that a violation could be tolerated, only to then be deemed unacceptable—an evolution that raised questions about accountability.
Sozin also questioned why no disciplinary action has been taken for the use of strong language by Dziuba, while a journalist faces potential consequences for perceived rudeness and intimidation. The tension surrounding the topic underscores how public figures on social platforms can shape the narrative around sports journalism and athlete communication.
Dziuba co-hosts a YouTube program with Slutsky, a format in which they bring in well-known football players for discussions. The show, titled such in reference to its theme, has drawn critique for the extensive use of profanity during broadcasts, which some viewers felt detracted from the overall quality of the conversations.
The incident occurred on August 12, following Lokomotiv’s 1-1 draw with Krylya Sovetov Samara in the fourth round of the Russian Premier League. A journalist attempted to pose a question to Dziuba, who responded with a forceful rebuttal and threats. Prior to this exchange, Dziuba had stated a lack of interest in engaging with the press unless given questions he deemed worthy of attention.
Formerly, Slutsky moved to intervene amid the ongoing dispute between Dziuba and a journalist, highlighting the wider controversy that has surrounded the pair and the program’s conduct. The episode has prompted discussions about professional boundaries, media relations, and the responsibilities of athletes in the public eye, as well as the role of coaches and managers in mediating such confrontations. [Source: Vprognoze.ru]