In a recent television interview, sports commentator Dmitry Guberniev weighed in on Artem Dzyuba’s claim that he could still play for the Russian national team. Guberniev acknowledged the spark of jealousy behind Dzyuba’s remark, specifically the idea that a player might be part of the national squad even if the situation didn’t look ideal. He added that national selection should come from proven skill and consistent performance, not from wishes or rumours. The moment highlighted a broader conversation about what it takes to wear the national jersey and how public perception can shape a player’s career.
Guberniev explained that Dzyuba’s regret centers on missing the chance to train with the national team and show his form directly to head coach Valery Karpin. He stressed that a call to the national team is earned, not assumed, and that jealousy does not help anyone. The host emphasized that to secure selection, a player must regularly deliver high-quality performances at club level, adapt to tactical demands, and contribute to the team in meaningful ways.
Dzyuba’s professional path took him away from Lokomotiv Moscow after the end of last season. The 35-year-old forward appeared in 26 matches across all competitions during the 2023/24 campaign, recording four goals and four assists. Lokomotiv finished fourth in the Russian Premier League with 53 points, a result that left little margin for error and shaped the club’s decision to move on from him. The veteran striker’s departure marked a significant shift for a squad that had long depended on his experience as a stable presence.
Akron, newly promoted to the Russian Premier League, entered the season as a debutant in the top flight. After eight rounds, the Tolyatti club sat in 11th place with eight points, a modest start but one that reflected the squad’s adjustment to a higher level of competition. The team announced the signing of Dzyuba on the last day of the summer transfer window, a move aimed at providing a proven goalscorer and a leadership presence for the club’s fresh chapter.
In Akron’s first match against Khimki, a 3-0 victory, Dzyuba contributed an assist, immediately showing he could translate his experience into value for his new team. The early impact suggested potential for a turning point as Akron navigates the challenges of life in the top division.
Earlier reports had indicated that Akron’s head coach Daniele De Rossi had resigned. While the situation remained fluid, the news added another layer to the club’s evolving coaching and tactical setup as Dzyuba adjusted to the new environment.
At 35, Dzyuba brings veteran presence and a wealth of top-flight experience to Akron, a club still shaping its identity in the Russian top flight. His presence on and off the pitch is expected to influence matches, help younger players grow, and contribute to the club’s long-term competitive plans.
Observers will note that the move aligns with Akron’s roster strategy, blending youthful talent with experienced finishers who can deliver under pressure. Dzyuba’s track record suggests he can offer a focal point in attack, help in set-piece situations, and provide leadership as the team adapts to life in the RPL.
While club ambitions drive the transfer, the other thread remains Dzyuba’s status with the national team and the ongoing speculation about calls from the national coach. Fans will watch whether club success translates into opportunities to wear the national jersey again, or whether the evolving roster and tactical setup in Russia keep him on the periphery.
Overall, the situation captures the crossroads of a storied career and a fresh challenge at a debutant club. Dzyuba’s early contributions, the public dialogue around national team eligibility, and Akron’s attempt to stabilize its campaign all converge in a narrative about resilience, ambition, and the enduring appeal of high-level football in Russia.