Lokomotiv midfielder Dmitry Barinov will not participate in the upcoming national team training camp this November due to health reasons. The medical update came from the team doctor, Igor Kalyuzhny, who spoke on behalf of the club’s medical staff and echoed the decision reached after a detailed medical review. The announcement underscores the careful approach taken to assess Barinov’s condition before he joins any national team gathering, prioritizing his long-term fitness and readiness for the demanding schedule ahead.
Following the recent league clash with Spartak, Barinov experienced minor muscle discomfort that prompted a thorough medical examination. The joint assessment conducted with the Russian national team headquarters concluded that proceeding with the next training camp would not be in the player’s best interests at this time. The medical team emphasized that the decision aims to prevent aggravation of the issue and to ensure a stable return to full training as soon as possible, with a plan tailored to his recovery timeline and club commitments.
The Russian national team program will begin its training camp in Novogorsk on November 13, with the squad focusing on preparation for upcoming fixtures, tactical drills, and conditioning sessions designed to optimize team cohesion and performance under the new calendar demands. Regular updates will outline the schedule, session topics, and any adjustments needed to accommodate player availability and ongoing medical evaluations.
As part of the November schedule, Valery Karpin’s squad is scheduled to face the Cuban national team in a friendly encounter in Volgograd on November 20. The match, set for 19.30 Moscow time, will serve as an important test case for assessing the team’s tactical integration, player form, and overall readiness ahead of more competitive fixtures in the international calendar. It will also offer an opportunity for squad depth to be evaluated in a controlled environment against a national side seeking to build its own rhythm and identity.
Historically, the Russian national team and its clubs have faced periods of suspension from certain competitions due to the broader governance decisions by international bodies. In early 2022, FIFA and UEFA suspended participation of Russian teams and the national side in all tournaments governed by these organizations. Since then, Russia has competed primarily in friendly matches and regional competitions, with a focus on maintaining competitive readiness while navigating the evolving landscape of international football. This context shapes the preparation strategy for the national team and influences the selection of opponents, training aims, and the overall approach to international duty during the current era.
A notable figure from the domestic scene, a former Zenit forward known for his prolific goal-scoring, is recalled in discussions about the country’s attacking lineage and the depth of talent available to the national team in the past decade. Such reflections highlight the enduring interest in evaluating the country’s forward options, the evolution of tactical roles, and the continued search for players who can deliver consistent impact on the international stage. The legacy of the nation’s best scorers serves as a benchmark as current players, including Barinov, navigate the challenges of club duties and national team responsibilities in a compressed calendar and a shifting competitive environment.