Famed football commentator Gennady Orlov shared his perspective on why players from the Russian Premier League (RPL) are increasingly less sought after in European championships. The remarks came through Sports24.
Orlov recalled the dynamics seen during the 2022 World Cup, noting how the strongest teams imposed relentless pressure. He quoted a coach who said that his side would not be a possession-based team, dismissing any hope of a more deliberate buildup. That stance, according to Orlov, underscored a broader truth: in the modern game, speed and transition can outpace patient, careful play. He added that reaching the standard of European football would require Russian players to step up their performance and be in demand across the continent. “It will be difficult,” he admitted, emphasizing that a shift in both training and exposure is necessary for change to happen.
The headline takeaway remains clear: there are fewer Russian players active in Europe’s top leagues than in years past. Notable exceptions exist, such as midfielder Alexander Golovin, who represents Monaco, and midfielder Aleksei Miranchuk, who is with Torino on loan from Atlanta. In goal, Andrey Lunev has been plying his trade with Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. These cases illustrate that while a handful of Russian talents have found situational opportunities abroad, a broad, sustained pipeline of players moving to Europe has dwindled compared to earlier eras.
Orlov also touched on opinions about other talents connected to Moscow clubs, including a former moment of discussion surrounding Quincy Promes, the Dutch-born midfielder associated with Spartak Moscow. His comments reflected a broader debate about how Russian clubs and their players are perceived on the European stage and what steps might help bridge the gap between domestic performance and international demand. (Source: Sports24)