Maxim Demenko, once a player for Zenit, weighs in on the chatter surrounding Ilzat Akhmetov and a potential move to St. Petersburg. He spoke about the decision-making process behind possibly joining a top St. Petersburg club, offering his perspective on the player’s career path and the factors that could influence the transfer. Demenko’s remarks are showcased here in his own words as relayed by Euro-Football.Ru.
Demenko suggests Zenit provided favorable conditions for Akhmetov, highlighting how a new chapter might hinge on the midfielder’s confidence in the club’s leadership. He notes that a conversation with Sergei Bogdanovich could have reinforced a sense of trust in the player, potentially changing Akhmetov’s outlook. The veteran’s interpretation points to limited playing time as a motivating factor for seeking a fresh environment where his talents could be utilized more consistently. The influencer of the decision, according to Demenko, may be how well the club demonstrates faith in him and the opportunity for regular minutes on the pitch.
Reports from January 4 via the Telegram channel “This is football, brother!” indicated that Akhmetov could complete a winter transfer from Krasnodar to Zenit, fueling anticipation among fans and analysts alike. The potential move would represent a significant reshaping of Akhmetov’s career trajectory, aligning him with one of Russia’s premier football programs during the mid-season window.
Akhmetov began his Russian Premier League journey in 2014, debuting with Rubin Kazan. He spent four seasons there before moving to CSKA Moscow, where he played for another four years. In 2022, he joined Krasnodar, continuing to demonstrate his versatility in the midfield role at a high level and contributing to the team’s efforts across multiple competitions.
Across the current season, the 26-year-old midfielder has appeared in 21 matches in all competitions for Krasnodar, recording three goals and two assists. This output highlights his capability to influence games through creative playmaking and goal involvement, which could be a decisive factor in a prospective transfer to Zenit or another top club seeking midfield depth and playmaking quality.
There have also been references in conversations to Akhmetova as a brake in movement, suggesting that discussions around his future have been careful and phased. Such phrasing underscores the cautious approach teams may take when maneuvering high-potential players through mid-season transfers, balancing financial considerations with the strategic need for improved shooting, passing options, and overall midfield stability.