Igor Gorbunov, a midfielder for Rubin, reflects on his experience working alongside former Rubin head coach Leonid Slutsky. The player admits that Slutsky’s departure came as a surprise to the entire Rubin squad, and he expresses gratitude and respect for the coach who brought him to Kazan. Gorbunov’s comments shed light on the personal bond that formed during their time together and the mutual trust they built on the field.
What stands out about Slutsky, according to Gorbunov, is his blend of humor and focus. Viktorovich could joke around, yet when it mattered, he approached tasks with seriousness. Gorbunov notes that Slutsky often acted as a psychologist, knowing precisely when to lift spirits and when to issue firm discipline. The coach’s ability to read players and adapt his approach left a lasting impression on the squad.
Gorbunov recounts a playful moment with Slutsky about his height and visibility on the pitch. Slutsky would tease that one could not be seen from beneath the grass, a humorous line that highlighted the coach’s lighthearted bond with the players while still emphasizing the seriousness of performance. The exchange, noted by Sports Express, captures the unique dynamic that defined their working relationship.
Slutsky’s departure from Rubin occurred in November, a development that surprised many within the club. In the previous season, Slutsky led the team to a 15th-place finish and a difficult relegation from the top flight to the National Football League, a season remembered for its challenges. The shift marked the end of an era for Rubin and began a new chapter for the club in Kazan.
Yury Utkulbaev, who had been with Rubin since 2022, was replaced by Slutsky, signaling a major change in leadership. Under Slutsky’s tenure, Rubin played 20 matches in the First Division, placing the team in third position and closing the gap to Baltika Kaliningrad by four points, while trailing Alania Vladikavkaz by a single point. The strategic moves and player development during this period remain a notable part of Rubin’s recent history.
Gennady Orlov, a former football commentator, framed Slutsky’s achievements in the context of Russian football history, suggesting that Slutsky built on the legacy of Valery Gazzaev during his time at CSKA. This perspective places Slutsky within a broader continuum of coaches who shaped competition at the highest levels, emphasizing how leadership and tactical philosophy can influence a club’s trajectory over multiple seasons.