The former head coach of the Russian national team and Spartak, Oleg Romantsev, has been a vocal critic of the idea to switch Russia to the Asian football confederation. He argues that moving to Asia would not simply mean a change in conference; it represents a fundamentally different football universe. Such a shift could hinder national teams and clubs by taking them onto a road that may lead away from genuine development. He emphasizes that competitive tournaments and regular high-level match practice are essential for the growth of Russian football. In his view, the level of play within the Asian confederation does not automatically translate into progress, and he remains firmly opposed to the transition, warning that it may not yield the intended benefits for either players or institutions. Global football authorities should prioritize stability and competitive integrity, not drastic reassignments that disrupt long-term development.
Recent actions by FIFA and UEFA have already sidelined Russia from all competitions governed by these bodies, illustrating the broader uncertainty facing Russian football. The federation was suspended from international play, creating a complicated backdrop for any future strategic moves. The impact has been felt across the national team as well as domestic leagues, with participation in major global events becoming increasingly uncertain while the governance bodies reassess the situation.
In the spring, the team under Valery Karpin’s leadership failed to reach the play-offs for the World Cup, and by autumn, the draw for a forthcoming European Championship failed to come to fruition. These outcomes reflect broader challenges in the national program and raise questions about where Russia’s football should head next. The Russian Football Union now faces an important decision about whether to pursue a path toward the Asian confederation, a move that would restructure many aspects of how games are organized, broadcast, and funded.
Throughout the year, discussions have included the possibility of friendly contests with teams from the Asian region, signaling an openness to engage with new regional partners. Such matches could offer valuable experience and exposure, but they also underline the need for a coherent strategy to ensure that any transition would support lasting development rather than short-term appearances. The Russian football community remains attentive to how regional alignments might affect youth programs, coaching standards, and the domestic league’s competitiveness.
There have also been indications from national supporters in various regions that any shift should be approached with caution. The central question remains whether alignment with the Asian Confederation would provide tangible benefits in terms of competition quality, financial stability, and international participation. Until a clear, well-supported plan is presented, many observers advocate maintaining current affiliations and focusing on strengthening domestic structures, player development, and international exposure within existing frameworks, while monitoring changes across the global football landscape and their potential implications for Russia.