Former Rostov head coach Sergei Balakhnin spoke in an interview with vprognosis about the recent appointment at CSKA Moscow. He welcomed the decision to bring Marko Nikolic to the capital club, noting that it aligns with CSKA’s ambitions and the direction the team needs to move in after a transitional period. Balakhnin stressed that the Serbian specialist has the right credentials and a strategic mindset to help CSKA regain its footing at the top of Russian football.
Balakhnin emphasized Nikolic’s proven track record, particularly his success at Lokomotiv Moscow, where he left a strong impression with a savvy approach to squad management and game planning. According to the former coach, the new CSKA coach has all the indicators of a knowledgeable leader who can tackle complex problems and implement effective solutions on the training ground and in match situations alike.
The club officially announced on June 4 that CSKA and Nikolic had finalized their agreement, and the Serbian coach signed the contract with the red-blue club on June 6. This period followed CSKA’s sixth-place finish in the Russian Premier League for the completed season. It also marked the departure of Vladimir Fedotov, who had been at the helm since 2022, creating a window of opportunity for fresh leadership and a new tactical approach.
Nikolic’s recent stint with Shabab Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates during the 2023/24 season showcased his capabilities on an international stage. Under his guidance, the club secured two trophies in quick succession—capturing the country’s Super Cup in 2023 and the Qatar and UAE Super Cup in 2024—alongside a silver medal finish in the domestic league. These accomplishments underscored his ability to unite a squad under demanding competition and deliver silverware in different competitive environments.
Prior to his time with Shabab Al-Ahli, Nikolic spent notable years at Lokomotiv Moscow from May 2020 to October 2021. During his tenure, the team achieved success in domestic cup competition, lifting the Russian Cup in the 2020/21 season. His experience across leagues and formats is seen as a valuable asset for CSKA as the club seeks stability, improved performance, and a return to challenging for the league title.
As the Russian football season progresses, CSKA fans and analysts alike await the impact of Nikolic’s methods on the squad. Observers anticipate a disciplined yet flexible system, with a focus on developing younger players while leveraging the leadership qualities of seasoned veterans. The aim is a balanced side capable of competing vigorously in both domestic fixtures and European competition in the years ahead.
There was ongoing anticipation in the Russian football community about what the new coaching leadership might achieve. The appointment signals a renewed commitment to tactical clarity, fitness discipline, and a progressive approach to player development. With Nikolic at the helm, CSKA’s management hopes for decisive results that reflect the club’s storied history and its ambitions for the modern era.