Vasily Kudryashov, father of defender Fedor Kudryashov, explained why his son left the Turkish club Antalyaspor, a move that many fans had anticipated for months. The elder Kudryashov said that football stories are driven by more than just on field results, and in this case the timing was shaped by a complex mix of performance, health, and long term plans. The interview, carried by Match TV, underscored that families often see the bigger picture when a football career enters a new chapter.
For a long time it had been public knowledge that Fedor Kudryashov would depart Antalyaspor when his contract concluded. An injury that required surgery and a slow recovery played a significant role in how the club’s coaching staff evaluated his place in the squad. When a head coach stops betting on a player, it signals that a transition may be near, and Kudryashov Sr emphasized that passport considerations and international eligibility were factors that clubs weigh in discussions about a player’s future. The message from the family was clear: the separation was a natural consequence of the evolving professional landscape surrounding the defender.
The official announcement came on July 2, revealing that Kudryashov would leave Antalyaspor. At 36 years old, Kudryashov had recorded one goal and three assists across 110 appearances for the Turkish club. Those numbers, while not headline grabbing, reflected steady contribution and reliability over several seasons in a challenging league, contributing to the team’s efforts across domestic cups and league play.
In his home country, Kudryashov built a recognizable career with stints at notable Russian clubs including Kudryashov, Spartak, and Terek. His path through Russian football helped forge a reputation for defensive resilience and leadership at the back, traits that teams in multiple leagues have valued over the years. From his early days in Russia to his later international responsibilities, Kudryashov’s presence on the pitch has often been characterized by steady decision making and a willingness to take on difficult assignments for the defense.
Since 2016, Kudryashov earned call ups to the Russian national team, a milestone that highlighted his status among the country’s recognized defenders. He played a role in World Cup qualifiers, including a high-stakes match against Croatia in Qatar in November 2021, where a late concession by the national side limited their direct progression in the tournament. The following year, Kudryashov announced his retirement from international play, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career. The decision reflected a broader trend among players who balance club ambitions with national team duties, and it resonated with fans who had followed his journey through the years.
Previously, reports indicated that Kudryashov had accepted an opportunity in Turkey, joining Antalyaspor and adding another international chapter to his extensive club career. The move represented a common trajectory for players seeking new challenges, broader exposure, and continued competitiveness as they approach the later stages of their professional lives. Throughout these developments, Kudryashov’s experience and presence on the field remained defining elements of his professional identity, shaping how coaches and teammates viewed his contributions in defense and leadership.