Igor Korneev, a former coach of the Russian national team, expressed surprise at the direction Leonid Slutsky decided to take in his managerial career. Speaking to Match TV, Korneev offered his candid assessment, noting that Slutsky’s commitment and drive are evident in every move he makes, even as the coach presents a calm exterior. According to Korneev, Slutsky’s decision to pursue a new challenge came as a notable pivot, one that suggests the heart behind his work continues to race with ambition and focus.
Korneev described Slutsky in terms that underscored intense preparation and a relentless work ethic. He painted a picture of a manager who is always on the edge of action, pacing and evaluating, as if weighing the next strategic step in a high-stakes game. Even in a moment of pause, Slutsky’s energy remains palpable, a trait Korneev sees as central to his leadership style. The veteran coach also hinted that, at times, even technology feels the need to recalibrate to keep pace with Slutsky’s evolving approach.
The most recent coaching post for Slutsky was at Rubin Kazan in Russia. During his tenure there, the club faced a difficult season, finishing near the bottom of the Russian Premier League standings in the 2021/22 campaign and ultimately dropping to the second tier. This period marked a challenging chapter in Slutsky’s club management career, highlighting the realities that top-tier coaches encounter as teams navigate competitive leagues.
Slutsky is widely recognized for his successes with CSKA Moscow, where he steered the club to multiple domestic achievements. Under his leadership, CSKA captured the Russian Premier League title on three occasions and also secured the domestic Cup triumphs as well as the Super Cup—highlighting a period of sustained domestic dominance for the club.
On the international stage, Slutsky led the Russian national team from 2015 to 2016. During his tenure, the squad competed in major tournaments, including the European Championship, and finished in a position that reflected a strong level of performance within the group, even as results varied. His time with the national team is remembered for a blend of tactical discipline and moments of high competitive intensity.
In December 2023, Slutsky accepted a coaching role with Shanghai Shenhua in China, marking another international chapter in his coaching career. The move signaled Slutsky’s ongoing willingness to take on fresh challenges across diverse football environments, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile and ambitious manager.
Throughout his career, Slutsky has been a polarizing figure at times, but his dedication to football and his willingness to pursue new opportunities remain central to his professional identity. His career arc, from domestic title-winning spells to recent international assignments, illustrates a coach who continuously seeks to shape teams through rigorous preparation, tactical adaptability, and a fearless mindset toward change.