Former Spartak Moscow coach Massimo Carrera indicated he would welcome the chance to lead the Russian national team if such an invitation came his way. This stance was reported by Sports24. In his own words, he reflected on his time with Spartak and whether opportunities to coach the national side might have crossed his path earlier. Carrera explained that during his spell at Spartak there were no offers extended to him to take charge of Russia’s senior team. Still, he did not dismiss the idea outright. When asked whether he ever harbored the ambition to manage the national squad, he responded that if the opportunity appeared, he would consider it with an open mind and would not have any issues accepting a formal offer.
Carrera’s tenure at Spartak lasted from 2016 to 2018, a period the club describes as highly successful. Under his guidance, Spartak Moscow claimed the Russian championship title, ending a long wait for domestic glory, and they also lifted the Russian Super Cup in 2017. The achievements helped cement Carrera’s reputation as a coach capable of delivering top-tier results. After departing Spartak, he continued his coaching career with clubs including AEK and Bari, adding to a diverse resume across European football.
Since 2021, Valery Karpin has led the Russian national team. During his stewardship, the national team achieved a runner-up finish in the 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign and earned a spot in the play-offs. However, Russia faced disruptions when matches could not be organized due to sanctions, leaving the team without official gatherings since spring 2022. This disruption has shaped the national team’s operations and planning, influencing the pool of candidates and the discussion around potential leadership.
In related conversations, there have been comments about the environment surrounding Russian football and national team representation. A recent statement attributed to Kushanashvili referenced the atmosphere surrounding the anthem and the players’ expressions on the field. That remark underscores the sensitivity and complexity of national team identity during times of political and sporting tension, and it has fed into broader discussions about leadership, unity, and the responsibilities that come with guiding a national squad on the world stage.