Malcolm Navigates National Identity and a Flourishing Season in Russia
The Zenit Saint Petersburg midfielder, Malcolm, recently addressed how he should be identified now that he has obtained Russian citizenship. He spoke about embracing a new national identity and the playful possibilities that come with it, highlighting his dual Brazilian roots and his new status as a Russian citizen.
In a lighthearted moment captured by sports24, Malcolm said, “Now I am a Russian Brazilian. Very satisfied remaining. What should I be called now? Malkin, Malkiev, Malkova. Thank you!” His remarks show a blend of gratitude and humor as he adjusts to life with new documentation and a broader sense of belonging in Russia.
Malcolm and his Zenit teammate Claudinho both received their Russian passports on February 24. The pair has lived in Russia for several years—Malcolm since 2019 and Claudinho since 2021—and both players are Olympic champions, having contributed to Brazil’s gold-medal campaign in Tokyo. Their journeys illustrate how international athletes can build a long-term career in Russia while integrating into local culture and society.
On the football pitch this season, Malcolm has been a standout for Zenit, featuring in 18 Russian Premier League fixtures and contributing 14 goals along with 5 assists. Claudinho has been equally productive, recording 3 goals and 4 assists across 14 appearances. The duo’s performances have helped Zenit maintain a strong position in the league, underscoring the impact international stars can have when they combine elite talent with sustained commitment to a club and country.
Meanwhile, the broader national football scene has seen governance and officiating discussions continue. Reports indicated that Spartak Moscow would not file a protest with the Russian Football Union’s expert and refereeing commission regarding the officiating in Vitaly Meshkov’s 18th-week match in the Russian Premier League. The decision reflects ongoing conversations about match management and consistency in refereeing across the league, a topic that resonates with clubs, players, and fans alike as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, Malcolm’s dual identity as a Brazilian-born, Russian citizen positions him uniquely in the sport. He embodies the cross-cultural exchange that modern football champions often symbolize, blending the samba flair of his early career with the disciplined, tactical rigor favored in Russian football. For fans and analysts, his trajectory offers a compelling case study in how international players adapt off the field while continuing to excel on it. As the season unfolds, his evolving role within Zenit and his status in the Russian league will remain points of interest for observers in both Russia and North America, where audiences closely follow the sport’s global reach and the personal stories that accompany player success.