Lokomotiv Moscow defender Mario Mitai has opened up about the downsides of living in Moscow, as reported by Sports24. He pointed to the traffic jams that clog the city every day and the steep cost of living that affects groceries, housing, and everyday essentials, with the exception of gasoline, which remains comparatively cheaper. He also noted the prevalence of speed cameras that monitor motorists across the capital, a constant reminder of the urban audit trail that many players have to navigate when traveling to training and matches.
Mitai added that he has faced penalties on the field, recounting that last season brought him five or six bookings based on refereeing decisions. He emphasized that these moments have become a memorable part of his time in the league and have contributed to his learning curve as a professional moving abroad.
Joining Lokomotiv on a five-year contract in the summer of 2022, the Albanian defender arrived in Russia with a background rooted in Greece, where he trained and began his professional journey with AEK. His career has seen him earn eight caps for the Albania national team, showcasing his experience on the international stage as he continues to adapt to a new league and culture.
In the current Russian Premier League season, Mitai has appeared in fourteen league matches, contributing to Lokomotiv’s efforts though he has yet to find the back of the net. The team sits in fifth place in the table with 32 points, while leader Zenit Saint Petersburg leads with 40 points. Krasnodar sits just behind in second place, a point behind the leaders, and Dinamo Moscow is also in the top three with 38 points.
Mitai has previously admitted his initial fears before making the move to Russia, a decision he weighed alongside his ambitions to grow as a footballer and to experience a new footballing culture. The practical realities of living in a large, vibrant city have shaped his perspective as much as the sport itself, influencing how he trains, travels, and connects with teammates and supporters.
Throughout his time in Russia, Mitai has remained focused on his development and staying professional in a high-pressure environment. He continues to balance his on-field responsibilities with the adjustments that come with life in a foreign country, drawing on the support of Lokomotiv’s staff and his teammates to help him adapt. The challenges of metropolitan life, the pace of the league, and the demands of international duty all contribute to the ongoing evolution of his career. [Source: Sports24]