Dynamo Moscow’s Fedor Smolov spoke recently about the state of refereeing in Russian football, offering a candid take on how the game feels today and the role that technology plays on the field. At 33, Smolov remains a familiar figure in Moscow, a veteran forward who continues to contribute with both goals and assists. He acknowledged that referees are human and prone to mistakes, but he also highlighted a broader trend in the Russian Premier League: video assistant referee checks tend to slow the tempo of matches, creating pauses that interrupt the flow from the opening whistle to the final seconds.
Smolov stressed that officials pursue accuracy, yet the human element can still sway decisions in crucial moments. His remarks come as he maintains a high level of performance for Dynamo Moscow, juggling playmaking and finishing duties across multiple competitions this season. Market observers currently estimate his transfer value at around five million euros, reflecting his established reputation and depth of experience in top European leagues.
Smolov’s career spans a series of clubs in Russia and abroad. He has starred for Dynamo Moscow, Anzhi Makhachkala, Ural Yekaterinburg, and Krasnodar, building a reputation as a versatile striker who can both score and create opportunities for teammates. International stints include a loan spell with Feyenoord in the Netherlands during 2010 and a period with Celta Vigo in Spain in 2020, experiences that exposed him to different playing styles and tactical systems. These chapters have shaped his understanding of football and informed his straightforward views on officiating and match dynamics.
The discussion mirrors Smolov’s long-standing commitment to high standards on the pitch and his willingness to speak openly about issues affecting performance and fair play. In recent months, there were reports suggesting Smolov declined a winter transfer window move to a Turkish club, a decision framed by his focus on Dynamo Moscow and the goals he pursues there. His perspective aligns with a broader conversation among coaches and players about balancing technology with human judgment in elite football, a debate that continues as leagues refine officiating tools and on-field communication. Throughout his career, Smolov has remained a prominent figure in national football, known for his goal-scoring instincts and his readiness to share thoughtful, sometimes provocative, opinions about the state of the game and its governance.