Evgeny Melezhikov, who previously led Spartak Moscow as general manager, has been appointed executive director of the Russian Premier League (RPL). This development was confirmed by the league’s official communications channel, signaling a significant leadership shift within Russia’s top-tier football governance.
According to the league’s announcement, Evgeniy Vladimirovich Melezhikov steps into the role of general manager effective immediately. The message also noted that Sergei Vladimirovich Cheban, who had served as executive director, will transition to an advisor position, marking a strategic redistribution of responsibilities at the league’s top executive level.
Melezhikov has a long tenure in Russian football administration, including a stint as security director at Spartak from 2015 to 2019, followed by a return to that position in September 2020. He later led the club as chief executive officer from 2021 until 2023, guiding Spartak through a period of competitive balance and governance challenges. In terms of on-field performance, the club finished the 2022/23 campaign with a bronze medal and trailed only Zenit St. Petersburg in the final standings, while Moscow rivals CSKA Moscow and Petersburg-based teams faced tougher outcomes. Spartak did, however, endure disappointment in cup play, with an early exit in the Russian Cup after losses to Akron Tolyatti in the later rounds, underscoring the persistent unpredictability of knockout football.
As the current season unfolds, Spartak sits in sixth place in the Russian Championship standings. Coach Guillermo Abascal has guided the squad through a demanding schedule, including two scheduled Russian Cup semi-final clashes against Zenit in April. The first encounter is slated for April 3, with a kickoff at 20:30 Moscow time, promising a high-stakes test for both teams as they push toward domestic silverware and a strong league finish. The season’s narrative—marked by tactical adjustments, player development, and resilience under pressure—continues to shape Spartak’s trajectory in Russian football’s evolving competitive landscape.
Media and insiders have highlighted a period of uncertainty surrounding Spartak, with discussions around leadership decisions and the club’s long-term strategy. The appointment of Melezhikov as league executive director is viewed by many as part of a broader effort to align executive governance with the needs of a modern, commercially viable league structure. While some observers have speculated on potential changes in the club’s day-to-day operations, the focus remains on how leadership transitions at the league level can influence the competitive balance, youth development investments, and the overall health of Russian football.