Former Dynamo Moscow mentor Alexei Petrushin shared his assessment of the potential return of Leonid Slutsky to the blue and white team’s bench. He noted that after his spells with CSKA and Rubin, Slutsky has faced scrutiny, and while he won’t publicly condemn the coach, Petrushin suggested that Slutsky’s recent performances could be described as inconsistent. The veteran coach’s aim remains to see a steady hand guide the squad back to the top of the table, a goal that many observers say requires a reliable, transformative presence among the players.
Petrushin recalled Slutsky’s tenure at Rubin, which spanned from 2019 to 2022. In the most recent campaign under Slutsky’s leadership, Rubin finished 15th and faced relegation to the National Football League, the competition now known in the country as the Major League, a league last contested in 2002. The coach’s responsibilities at Rubin became a focal point in discussions about his suitability for the capital club, given the team’s recent struggles and the pressure to restore stability and results.
Earlier this year, Rubin announced that Slutsky had voluntarily stepped down from his role as head coach. This development closed a chapter in the Kazan club’s recent history and opened questions about what direction the club might pursue next as it recalibrates its ambitions within the Russian football system.
During his time with CSKA Moscow, Slutsky earned multiple domestic honours, including three Russian Premier League titles and two Russian Cup and Super Cup trophies. Those achievements underscored his capacity to lead teams to silverware, but recent seasons have tested the consistency and resilience of his squads. Analysts note that the path back to the top requires not only tactical clarity but also the ability to nurture a cohesive locker room and to translate potential into consistent performances on match days.
Commentators have emphasized that any move to install Slutsky would hinge on a clear plan for rebuilding confidence within the squad and aligning the club’s long-term objectives with the strengths of its players. The focus would be on stabilizing results, building a resilient defensive structure, and sharpening the attack without losing balance across the field. Observers argue that the most successful coaches in this vein are those who combine rigorous preparation with an honest approach to player development and accountability, creating an environment where every member of the squad understands their role and contribution.