The honorary president of the Russian Football Union, Vyacheslav Koloskov, shared his astonishment about Krasnodar climbing into the top third of the Russian Premier League. He spoke with Sports24 and offered his take on the early season developments.
According to Koloskov, after a third of the league schedule there is still an air of predictability around the Russian top flight, yet Krasnodar stands out. He noted the club’s consistency and narrow margins in results, contrasting that with the performances of Spartak Moscow, CSKA Moscow, and Zenit Saint Petersburg, which currently occupy the upper echelon. In Koloskov’s view, Krasnodar’s approach marks them as a genuine contender for sustained success, and he credited Vladimir Ivich with assembling the squad and setting the tactical tone that has kept Krasnodar ahead in the standings.
Following eleven rounds, Krasnodar leads the table with a flawless record in terms of defeats, an achievement unmatched by any other team this season. The group has accumulated 27 points, underscoring the impressive early form under Ivich’s guidance. In second place sits Wings of the Soviets, the Samara club, six points adrift of Krasnodar and eyeing a continued climb as the campaign unfolds. Zenit Saint Petersburg sits third in the standings with 20 points, creating a tight early-season battle at the top of the table.
At present, national team duties paused the club schedule. The league resumes with the twelfth round slated to kick off on October 21, featuring a high-profile clash between Orenburg and Fakel Voronezh. The kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 Moscow time, and fans will be watching closely to gauge how the interlude will affect form and momentum as the competition returns to full rhythm.
Looking back, Koloskov has previously highlighted Krasnodar as a strong force within the league and has repeatedly emphasized the importance of solid management, midfield control, and efficient finishing in securing top-tier results. His commentary reflects a broader consensus among analysts who see Krasnodar as a team capable of challenging the traditional powers when conditions align for consistent performance. The early surge by Ivich’s squad has become a talking point among supporters and pundits alike, illustrating how steady development, careful squad rotation, and tactical clarity can translate into meaningful league progress.
As the season progresses, fans will be keen to see whether Krasnodar can maintain their momentum and whether the frontrunners ride the wave of form into the deciding months. The early standings have already sparked conversations about depth in the squad, potential transfer movements, and the strategic decisions that will shape the midseason push for silverware. With Krasnodar setting the pace and the rest of the top tier chasing, the race promises to deliver drama, surprises, and a showcase of Russian football at a high level across the country.