Voronezh Fakel head coach Sergei Tashuev discussed his working relationship with Roman Askhabadze, Alexander Samedov and Kirill Kotov, highlighting how their insights and experiences have shaped the club’s current approach. His remarks, quoted by Sports Express, shed light on the dynamic within the coaching staff and the broader football ecosystem around Fakel. Tashuev emphasizes that the core of any football program rests on a solid foundation: training processes, tactical planning, strategic alignment, and the composition of the match squad. He notes that while he respects the stature of individual players and club officials, the emphasis remains on the practical mechanics that drive performance on the pitch. Askhabadze, Samedov, and Kotov are all recognized as football people with long résumés in the game, and Tashuev stresses that their contributions extend beyond accolades. He cites Roman Guramych, who previously played for Spartak and later found success in Armenia, Kirill Nikolaevich, who has experience as Lokomotiv’s sports director, and Alexander Samedov, described as a top-level football professional. This trio, according to the coach, embodies the essence of football culture and expertise that Fakel taps into to strengthen its organizational and on-field strategies.
Tashuev also acknowledged the practical help these individuals provide beyond strategic discussions. They assist the team with organizational tasks and logistical planning, factors that can influence performance even before the ball is kicked. Since taking over leadership of Fakel in September 2023, the coach has sought to build a collaborative environment where seasoned football minds contribute to a coherent plan. The aim is to align training intensity, tactical studies, and squad rotation in a way that maintains competitive edge while supporting player development and morale. The coach’s approach reflects a broader trend in modern football where experienced assistants and strategic thinkers contribute heavily to club culture, game preparation, and day-to-day operations.
In terms of competitive results, Fakel has spent 18 weeks in the Russian Premier League, amassing 21 points and settling into the 10th position, tied with Rostov. The season has seen notable performances, including a victory over Spartak and draws with CSKA and Dynamo, signaling that the team is capable of matching strong opponents on any given matchday. Krasnodar led the championship at the winter break with 38 points, which provides a benchmark for Fakel to strive toward as the campaign progresses. The former Spartak player’s assessment of the team is candid: he views Fakel as playing with a balanced and ambitious style, describing the football as a three-plus system that balances solid defense, controlled ball progression, and effective attacking transitions. This assessment aligns with Tashuev’s explicit emphasis on cohesion, discipline, and continuous improvement as the club seeks to climb the table and establish itself as a consistent force in the league’s upper tier.