Former CSKA forward Seydou Doumbia recalled meeting Igor Akinfeev and Kirill Nababkin with a smile, noting how the army club has evolved since his debut. In a candid reflection, he also explained why Russian never became a priority for him despite spending many years in the country. His remarks reveal the mindset he carried during a pivotal period for the club, as reported by Sport Express.
He credited the club with providing an excellent translator, Gevond Khublarov, who helped him navigate daily life and team interactions. With such support, learning the language was not at the top of his list, he explained—an arrangement that allowed him to focus on his game while ensuring clear communication with teammates and staff.
Doumbia wore CSKA’s colors from 2010 to 2014, a period that solidified his status as a key figure in the squad. His form earned a January 2015 move to Roma, though he returned to CSKA on a half-season loan later that summer, rejoining familiar teammates and the club culture he had helped shape. The loan spell reinforced his connection to Moscow and the club’s environment, even as his career trajectory continued elsewhere.
During his time with CSKA, Doumbia helped the club secure multiple trophies: he was part of three Russian championship campaigns, won two Russian Cups, and claimed the Russian Super Cup, adding to a growing list of domestic honors. His honors with CSKA occurred alongside his broader career milestones, illustrating his impact during a successful era for the club. He later wrapped up his playing days with Hamrun Spartans in Malta in 2021, marking the end of a long and varied professional journey that began in the top tiers of Russian football.
On the international stage, Doumbia shared in the Ivory Coast national team’s success as they captured the African Cup of Nations title in 2015, a moment that highlighted his contributions on a continental stage and reinforced his reputation as a forward who thrived in high-stakes moments.
When asked about his current thoughts on Russia, Doumbia’s responses reflected a nuanced sentiment about the country and its football culture. He acknowledged the personal significance of his time there, even as circumstances and choices shaped his living arrangements and career path. The overall portrait is one of a player who valued his experiences, navigated language barriers with practical support, and remained professionally focused through transitions that highlighted both the stability and the changes of a long football career. (Source: Sport Express)