Artem Dzyuba, the striker for Lokomotiv, recently shared his thoughts about joining the club and what the move means for him personally and professionally.
He described Lokomotiv as a place with a strong guiding figure who engages with players at all levels. Dzyuba emphasized that the team environment is positive and that the atmosphere helps players grow, both on and off the pitch. He added that the real challenge for him is not just the tactical side of the game but the psychological task of connecting with every member of the squad and earning the trust of younger teammates by showing leadership and consistency during every training session and match.
When asked about the path to standing out and proving value, Dzyuba underscored the importance of earning trust from the younger players and demonstrating reliability through performance. He indicated that his aim is to be seen as a dependable elder on the team, someone the players can rely on when stakes are high and the competition is intense. He also touched on the broader goal of helping the squad achieve success on the field, including competitiveness in the league and progress in cup competitions.
On February 8, Dzyuba signed a contract with Lokomotiv through the end of the current season. After the deal was announced, a vocal protest appeared near the team’s home stadium, using a banner with harsh language directed at the player. Reports indicate that Dzyuba prioritizes strong showings in the domestic league, while still weighing opportunities abroad that may arise in the future, should they align with his career goals and the club’s plans.
Before joining Lokomotiv, Dzyuba spent several months without being tied to a club. He had been with Adana Demirspor in Turkey since August of the previous year. In November, the contract with Adana was terminated. Across four appearances for the Turkish side, he did not feature in any league matches, a situation that left him eager to reestablish his form in a familiar environment and showcase his resilience and experience at the highest level of competition.
Former coach Mikhail Galaktionov commented on the transition, noting that the fit between a player and a team can be fluid, with personal adaptation playing a crucial role. The coach suggested that Dzyuba’s willingness to adjust and integrate into Lokomotiv’s plans would be a key factor in how quickly he helps the squad translate potential into results on the field. This perspective aligns with the broader view that successful teams rely on a blend of proven leadership and ongoing adaptation to match the evolving demands of the league and international opportunities that may come in the coming months.