Russian footballer Alexander Golovin, known by fans as Monaco’s dynamic midfielder, recently spoke on a YouTube channel hosted by Journalist Nobel Arustamyan, sharing candid thoughts about life in Europe and his ties to Russia.
“There’s still not enough meatballs, not enough. Our mentality, our people, the Russian people, still lack something. People here think differently; it isn’t bad, just unfamiliar and less comfortable,” Golovin explained. “I feel truly at home in Russia.”
Golovin’s move to Monaco came in the summer of 2018, transferring from Moscow’s CSKA Moscow. The deal set a club record, with a transfer fee reported around 30 million euros. Since joining, the Russia international has developed into a cornerstone for Monaco, bringing creativity, pace, and directness to the team’s attacking framework.
During the latest season, Golovin has appeared in 15 fixtures, contributing 5 goals and 2 assists. In one notable league match against Toulouse on December 20, he received a red card for unsporting behavior, a moment that sparked discussions about discipline and control on the pitch.
Monaco currently sits in third place with 33 points after 17 rounds, trailing Nice by two points in second and PSG, leading the table with 40 points. The principality club eyes a crucial clash against Reims scheduled for January 13, a match that could shape the final phase of their campaign. This season has seen Monaco leveraging Golovin’s playmaking instincts to unlock tight defenses and create high-quality chances for teammates up front.
Earlier in his tenure with Monaco, Golovin openly talked about his longing for Russia. He emphasized the warmth of home and the cultural resonance that continues to anchor his identity as a player and person, even as he competes at the highest levels of European football. His remarks added a human dimension to a career defined by technical skill, tactical intelligence, and international experience that has taken him from the Russian Premier League to the top leagues in Europe.
Golovin’s journey reflects a broader narrative about adaptation, identity, and performance at the highest level of sport. Like many players who relocate across borders, he balances the demands of a professional career with personal and cultural considerations, using football as a bridge between nations and fans. His experiences in Monaco have shaped a style that blends precision, courage, and a readiness to take on challenges on both club and national stages, while his enduring connection to Russia remains a defining thread in his story. His development continues to be watched by supporters, analysts, and aspiring players who see in him a model of resilience and ambition in modern football.