Sergei Kiryakov, previously the head coach of Tula Arsenal and now leading Leningradets, spoke candidly about the hurdles facing Russian football today. He described a landscape where securing a job at a big club hinges on more than coaching talent and tactical know-how. The network you build can matter just as much as your coaching résumé, he suggested, highlighting how relationships influence opportunities at the highest levels.
On practical terms, Kiryakov noted that many decisions are made through calls, introductions, and behind‑the‑scenes advocacy. If a coach has solid senior contacts who can vouch for them and make a direct proposal, that endorsement can become a decisive factor in hiring choices. He emphasized that professional credentials can be overshadowed by the value of mentorship and advocacy within the industry.
While admitting that the situation may have shifted somewhat in recent years, Kiryakov pointed to lingering issues of nepotism and lobbying within the sport. He reflected on how these dynamics can shape career paths and influence club decisions, sometimes at the expense of merit. The remarks came during an interview with Match TV, where he offered his perspective as someone with deep experience in Russian football.
Since 2021, Kiryakov has been at the helm of Leningradets, bringing a former USSR national team player’s perspective to his current leadership role. He was previously recognized for his work as a player at the national level, and his insights are now part of the broader conversation about talent development and opportunities in Russian football. Journalist Igor Rabiner has covered his journey and shared commentary on his career trajectory.
Earlier reports noted that Kiryakov spent time in Basel and that Artem Ovsyannikov, the son of Tula Arsenal’s press officer, was invited to attend the team’s next match. These details contribute to the ongoing narrative about connectivity, exposure, and the ways in which travel and access intersect with coaching careers and club relations, underscoring the complex web of factors that can influence a coach’s professional path.