Dynamo Moscow Faces Scrutiny Over Coaching Quality After a Difficult Season
The head of the Domestic Football Coaches Association, Mikhail Gershkovich, voiced sharp criticism of Slavisa Jokanovic’s work this season after he took charge of the club in the summer of 2022. Gershkovich pointed to multiple issues across the squad’s performance, from defense to attack and the transitions between the two phases. He described Jokanovic as not particularly convincing and suggested that the club could have acted earlier regarding leadership changes. The comments came during a talk with Match TV, reflecting a belief that Dynamo Moscow has not met expectations during the club’s centennial year, when many hoped for title challenges or a strong cup run.
In a dramatic late moment, Dynamo Moscow claimed a victory over Khimki in extra time, with striker Fedor Smolov converting a penalty after a foul in the box on Konstantin Tyukavin. The win pushed Dynamo to 39 points after 26 league fixtures, lifting them to seventh place and closing the gap with Orenburg in the standings. This match adds another chapter to a season characterized by inconsistent results and critical scrutiny from pundits and supporters alike.
Looking ahead, Dynamo Moscow is preparing to face CSKA in the current round, a fixture that carries extra weight given the club’s recent struggles and its position in the league table. The outcome of this match could influence perceptions of the team’s direction heading into the latter part of the campaign. The coaching questions persist as the squad evaluates how best to maximize its talent and restore consistency across all competitions.
Historically, Dynamo Moscow has faced setbacks in domestic cup competitions as well. The club’s performance in the Russian Cup has not always met the expectations set by its proud history, adding another layer to the discussions surrounding coaching strategy and squad development. Former coach Andrey Talalaev was questioned about his potential departure from Khimki if it meant moving away from the Russian Premier League, underscoring the broader debate over leadership, stability, and ambition within the top flight of Russian football.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether the club’s management will pursue changes in the coaching setup or whether improvements on the pitch will alter the assessment of Jokanovic’s tenure. The season remains dynamic, with key fixtures on the horizon that will test the squad’s resilience, tactical discipline, and ability to convert chances into points. As Dynamo Moscow navigates this period, the focus remains on strengthening defense, sharpening attacks, and ensuring smoother transitions to sustain competitiveness at the highest level.