Igor Shalimov, known for his time with Inter Milan and Bologna, recently weighed in on Daler Kuzyaev’s surprising move to Le Havre. The former midfielder shared his thoughts with Match TV, offering a candid view on the decision and what it might mean for the Russian player.
Shalimov emphasized Kuzyaev’s age, noting that turning 30 can narrow some career horizons. He questioned what Kuzyaev could realistically expect from a transfer at this stage, hinting that the move might be driven more by personal appetite for a new experience than by footballing ambition alone. The veteran suggested Kuzyaev may have been motivated by a sense of adventure rather than the hunt for the next big club, framing the choice as a personal odyssey rather than a purely competitive one.
Previously, Kuzyaev had a contract with Zenit that expired at the end of June, after which he became a free agent. Market assessments place his market value around ten million euros, reflecting his proven contributions at the top level in Russia and his experience in international competition.
During his last season, Kuzyaev appeared in twenty six matches, tallying five goals and four assists. Those numbers underscore a versatile midfield presence capable of contributing in open play and linking play across the attacking zones.
In the prior campaign, Kuzyaev helped Zenit clinch the Russian championship, adding another national title to his resume, alongside the club’s victory in the country’s Super Cup. His role in that success highlighted his ability to influence big matches and deliver when it matters most for a title-contending side.
Le Havre’s ascent to Ligue 1 marked a milestone in the club’s history. Finishing the Ligue 2 season in third place secured promotion to the elite division, where clubs compete for national prestige and European qualification spots. Le Havre’s legacy in French football stretches back to a historic high of finishing third in the Ligue 1 standings during the 1950/51 season, a marker of the club’s enduring presence in French football lore.
Earlier reports surfaced about a medical examination Kuzyaev underwent with Paris Saint-Germain, though, at the moment, there is no confirmation of a signing. Such rumors often circulate during periods of transfer activity as clubs assess a player’s fit and health before extending formal offers.
What stands out about Kuzyaev is his ability to adapt across leagues and styles. His move to Le Havre, if it becomes permanent, could signal a shift in his career philosophy—from chasing the biggest stage to embracing a fresh environment where leadership, experience, and a new tactical context can drive influence on and off the pitch. Observers will be watching how his style translates to Ligue 1, where pace, technique, and decision-making play pivotal roles in midfield battles. For Le Havre, signing a player with Kuzyaev’s background could offer both on-field production and an aura of experience that helps guide younger teammates through the demands of top-tier French football.
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