Dmitry Kirichenko, who serves on the coaching staff as an assistant to Sochi head coach Kurban Berdyev, has shared insights into how Iranian football differs from Russia’s game. The duo is well known for their previous collaboration in Iran with Tractor, a period that helped shape their approach and tactical philosophy. The discussion reveals how the pace of play, the physical attributes of players, and the overall style of competition in Iran create a different kind of football compared with the Russian domestic league. Kirichenko emphasizes that, viewed broadly, the Iranian championship registers a higher tempo and a more intense physical demand, underpinned by a culture that celebrates strength, endurance, and a certain breed of athleticism that persists across generations. He notes that while technical finesse may sometimes appear uneven, the competitive environment produces athletes with remarkable resilience and a robust football identity that has clearly influenced Berdyev’s methods. The observation invites a deeper look at how these contrasts shape day to day coaching decisions and match preparation.
Kirichenko joined Berdyev’s staff in Sochi in late November 2022, continuing a collaborative journey that began in Rostov and extended to the Kazakh side Kairat. His career path is marked by repeated successful partnerships with Berdyev, a coach renowned for his ability to adapt tactics to the strengths of diverse groups of players. In Sochi, the staff has to balance the demands of a demanding league schedule with the need to build a cohesive team culture, especially as the squad integrates new players and refines tactical responsibilities. The relationship between the two coaches brings continuity to the club’s approach, while also inviting fresh ideas. This blend is aimed at sustaining progress in a league known for its physical battles and strategic variability.
Sochi has accumulated a solid 25 points from 17 rounds in the Russian Premier League, placing the club in the upper midsection of the table. The position tests the squad’s consistency, as the season’s workload intensifies with frequent fixtures against top contenders. The coaching staff focuses on maintaining defensive solidity and improving attacking efficiency, with a clear plan to convert chances more consistently. Player development remains central, ensuring that younger teammates gain experience and belief from matches that demand both precision and courage. As the winter break concludes, the team tunes its system and personnel to maximize performance when competitive action resumes.
The next test for Sochi within the framework of the Russian Premier League Winter Cup is scheduled for today, February 10, against Spartak Moscow. This encounter is seen as a benchmark for progress, offering a chance to showcase tactical discipline and collective resilience. The coaching team studies Spartak’s strengths, preparing to press high, control transitions, and exploit spacing in attack. Such fixtures also present opportunities for fringe players to demonstrate readiness for expanded responsibilities, while established stars are tasked with maintaining consistency and leadership on the field. The result could influence the team’s rhythm heading into a tougher stretch of the season.
Meanwhile, Arman Durn, a former Iranian striker and a manager who has guided Serdar Azmoun at Bayer Leverkusen, suggested there is little likelihood of the German club parting ways with the player before the summer. He hinted at a possible return to the Russian Premier League during the off season, should circumstances align with the player’s career goals. This scenario would add an extra layer of consideration for clubs assessing upcoming transfer options, as a move could impact national team dynamics, league balance, and the broader market for talented forwards. In this context, observers note that the coming months may bring significant developments for players who have connections across leagues, influencing choices about where to play and how to develop further on the international stage.