Former Russian national team player Alexander Mostovoy noted that many Russian footballers prefer staying in the domestic league because the conditions there are favorable, reducing the appeal of moving abroad. He highlighted a practical question that resonates with many players: if the food and daily life at home satisfy personal and professional needs, why complicate life with a move overseas? The same point was illustrated by Kuzyaev, who joined a French club at the age of 30, an achievement Mostovoy applauded as well earned. He also pointed out that Daler has already achieved the pinnacle of success within Russia, making an international switch less urgent for him.
In spring 2022, the governing bodies FIFA and UEFA made the decision to suspend Russia from all competitions under their control. As a result, the Russian men’s national team, led by Valery Karpin, lost the chance to compete for a spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar in December and did not participate in the 2024 European Championship qualifiers. This shift significantly altered the trajectory for many players and clubs, forcing a new dynamic in how Russian football teams scheduled matches and pursued development on the international stage.
From spring 2022 onward, Russian clubs and the national team were limited to playing friendly matches only against foreign opponents, a restriction that reshaped long term planning, scouting, and player development across the country. Coaches, executives, and players had to adapt to an era where competitive exposure in major continental and world events was effectively paused, prompting renewed focus on domestic leagues, youth systems, and strategic partnerships with foreign clubs that could provide development pathways without permanent relocation.
There were ongoing discussions about whether Russian clubs would be able to sign players from abroad and how talent could be integrated under the new competitive constraints, with cautious optimism among club officials and analysts. The broader impact of the sanctions and suspensions extended beyond a single season, influencing transfer policies, wage structures, and the overall perception of Russian football in European markets. As the sport moves forward, stakeholders continue to weigh the balance between maintaining domestic strength and seeking opportunities to compete at the highest levels when sanction regimes allow, while ensuring the long term health of the national league and its players.
Observers note that the question remains how Russian football will navigate the post suspension period, rebuild competitive momentum, and reconnect with international audiences and leagues. The evolution will depend on governance reforms, on-field performance, and the ability to cultivate young talent who can thrive in a resumed global playing environment while respecting the unique contours of Russian football culture and its domestic championship’s appeal.