Edgar Sevikyan, a Paris NN midfielder, recently discussed the mixed reactions that followed his decision to represent Armenia at the international level, despite his club career unfolding in the Russian Premier League. He spoke candidly about how fans and pundits perceived the move, acknowledging that some would applaud while others might criticize. He stressed that there was considerable backing from supporters who understood his choice, and he highlighted messages of encouragement from teammates and friends, including Edik Spertsyan, who publicly expressed his approval after the announcement.
The 22-year-old has been part of Paris NN since 2022, contributing to the team with 16 appearances and a single goal. His time at the club has been marked by steady development, with coaches noting his technical growth, willingness to take on responsibility in midfield, and his ability to adapt to different tactical setups. Sevikyan underscored that his commitment to Armenia does not diminish his loyalty to his club, and he sees the two strands of his career as complementary, helping him grow as an all-around footballer.
In a broader context, FIFA and UEFA introduced sanctions that paused the participation of the Russian national team and all clubs under these bodies in spring 2022. The suspension had ripple effects across the football landscape, reshaping how players, leagues, and fans navigated international fixtures and club commitments. Sevikyan’s situation reflects a period when national affiliations and club duties intersected with complex geopolitical realities, influencing decisions and career paths for many players connected to Russian football.
Following the wave of restrictions, the Russian national team, under the guidance of coach Valery Karpin, organized a training camp in September. The squad engaged in three practice matches designed to evaluate forms, chemistry, and readiness during a break in the competitive calendar. The program included two games against the Egyptian Olympic squad, which ended in draws, and another match against Qatar that finished in a draw as well. These games were part of broader efforts to maintain competitive rhythm and to keep players in peak condition while national team activity was limited by sanctions and policy decisions from major football bodies.
Earlier, Valery Karpin had publicly commented on Sevikyan’s choice not to take part in the national team picture at that moment, signaling mutual respect between the player and the national setup. The exchange highlighted the evolving narratives around player eligibility and allegiance during a period of upheaval in international football, where players often faced difficult choices between personal development, club responsibilities, and national representation.