Former Sochi coach and renowned Russian football figure Alexander Tochilin spoke about a potential move involving CSKA Moscow striker Anton Zabolotny to Khimki, a club just outside Moscow that had earned promotion back to the Russian Premier League at the end of the previous season. Tochilin outlined why such a transfer would make sense for both clubs as the football landscape near Moscow continues to evolve.
He commented that CSKA Moscow chose not to renew Zabolotny’s contract, and that Khimki represents a very viable option for the forward. In his view, remaining close to Moscow would be beneficial for the player, and Khimki would gain a proven Premier League presence who could contribute immediately. According to Tochilin, Zabolotny would fit neatly into Khimki’s tactical plan, bringing experience and a level of physicality that the team had been seeking to bolster its attacking options. The expert noted that this kind of signing could provide a noticeable lift to Khimki’s attacking depth and versatility, matching the club’s ambitions for competing at a higher level in the league.
Despite the scrutiny that often accompanies players who face criticism for inconsistent form, Tochilin defended Zabolotny as a high-quality, adaptable striker capable of integrating into a collective system. He emphasized the player’s willingness to work hard and adapt to different roles on the field, underscoring that Zabolotny has repeatedly demonstrated the attributes necessary to contribute to a team’s cohesive play and pressing intensity. Tochilin also highlighted the importance of a striker who can link play between midfield and attack, which he believes Zabolotny can provide through intelligent movement and disciplined pressing when out of possession.
During last season, Zabolotny appeared in 29 matches across all competitions for CSKA Moscow, recording 9 goals and 4 assists. Over the course of his 33 years, he has achieved a double-digit goal tally in a single season on only one occasion, a benchmark that speaks to both the potential and the consistency expected from a player operating at the top level. Tochilin argued that career variability should not obscure the quality and reliability that Zabolotny can offer as a seasoned striker who is capable of delivering in important moments and contributing to a team’s offensive rhythm. His insight suggests that Zabolotny’s experience could help Khimki stabilize its frontline and improve finishing efficiency during challenging fixtures.
In broader football discussions surrounding Euro 2024, Zabolotny’s name has surfaced as a noteworthy option for teams without a national representative in the tournament. The conversation around his transfer prospects reflects the ongoing balance between nurturing young talent and leveraging experienced attackers who can adapt quickly to different leagues and tactical demands. As Khimki continues to rebuild and refine its squad, the potential addition of Zabolotny stands out as a move that could help the club maintain momentum and competitiveness as they navigate the challenges of staying in the Premier League and pursuing higher league objectives.