Former Dynamo Moscow coach Alexei Petrushin weighed in on the circulating rumors about Alexander Kerzhakov potentially taking over as mentor for the blue-whites, offering a measured perspective on how such a decision might unfold. He admitted that the information came as a surprise to him and described his reaction as one of genuine astonishment. According to Petrushin, it appears that figures like Lichka, Nikolich, and Kerzhakov could be in the running for positions within Dynamo, while the ultimate choice of coach would largely rest with Zeljko Buvac, who is known for prioritizing foreign expertise when assembling a competitive staff. Petrushin suggested that foreign candidates might be given the edge due to the experience and different coaching philosophies they bring to the club.
Kerzhakov’s resume includes a notable stint in Nizhny Novgorod, which is recognized as a positive chapter in his coaching journey. However, his time in Cyprus did not go as smoothly, a balance that Petrushin notes without dismissing the gains from his international exposure. He emphasized that results on the field and the ability to build a coherent team culture matter more than a single successful match, framing Kerzhakov’s Cyprus period as a mixed bag rather than a decisive credential. This candid assessment underscores the complexity of evaluating a coach’s suitability for Dynamo at a moment when organizational changes are being considered.
Historically, Kerzhakov took the helm of his Cyprus club in early February 2023 and promptly marked his debut with a victory, guiding Karmiotissa to a 4:3 win over Apollo. Over seven games in that spell, the side registered two wins, four losses, and one draw before Kerzhakov stepped away from the team. Such a short, fluctuating sample often fuels debate about a coach’s long-term potential and whether that experience translates to success in other leagues with different competitive dynamics. Dynamo’s recent form, after 25 rounds of the Russian Premier League, places the team in seventh position, a realistic backdrop for discussing whether a managerial change could alter their trajectory. With the club facing ongoing challenges in both the league and the national cup, speculation about a new coach persists and is likely to intensify as the season nears its end.
Earlier reports indicated that Anatoly Baydachny was evaluating two Russian coaches who could lead Dynamo, a plan that signaled a shift toward homegrown leadership alongside potential foreign influence. Such discussions reflect Dynamo’s broader strategic approach to building a coaching staff capable of delivering improved results while balancing the club’s identity with the demands of a highly competitive environment. The spotlight on Kerzhakov, combined with these other candidacies, highlights the nuanced decision-making process that clubs undertake when weighing experience, language, adaptability, and leadership style in a changing roster of players. As the season unfolds, Dynamo’s management will continue to weigh these options, aiming to stabilize performance and restore momentum in domestic competitions and beyond.