Dmitry Kuznetsov, head coach of the 2DROTS media team, acknowledged his surprise at the dismissal of Evgeny Kaleshin from the Akron coaching post, noting that the move came as unexpected news. He recalled the moment and quoted his own understanding of the situation, saying he hoped to stand by Kaleshin. Kuznetsov added that Kaleshin had presented his perspective clearly, and in the end it appeared the management chose a different path. The coach emphasized that many people privately share some of Kaleshin’s football critiques, yet fear the consequences of speaking out, including job security concerns. The situation raised questions about the balance between expressing opinion and organizational decisions, with Kuznetsov suggesting that loyalty to the team often trumps open disagreement in professional sports. (RB Sport)
Kaleshin was removed from his role after making outspoken comments about the state of Russian football. Akron had just lost a match to Volgar with a 0:1 scoreline, and Kaleshin publicly challenged the referee’s decision on the game’s goal. He also spoke about broader reforms, arguing that football in Russia needed a fundamental restructuring from within and that the sport was being undermined by deliberate factors. This public stance intensified discussions about accountability, governance, and the pace of change within the domestic game. (RB Sport)
Since taking the helm in September 2022, Kaleshin had been guiding Akron through a series of competitive campaigns, navigating the team through both transitions and tactical adjustments. His tenure, marked by a mix of expectations and scrutiny, reflected the pressures faced by coaches operating in a high-stakes environment where results, media scrutiny, and organizational loyalty often collide. (RB Sport)
Vladimir Ponomarev, a former CSKA and USSR national team player, weighed in on the broader debate, echoing concerns raised by Kaleshin about the perceived decline of Russian football. Ponomarev’s remarks underscored a lingering sentiment among some veteran players that structural challenges in the sport require thoughtful attention and strategic response, beyond isolated statements or protests. The exchange highlighted how former players remain part of the conversation on the health and direction of the game in the country. (RB Sport)