Former Moscow Spartak standout Nikita Bazhenov recently opened up about Artem Dziuba, a forward who has become part of Lokomotiv Moscow after leaving Spartak. Bazhenov spoke with Sport Express, offering a candid portrait of a player who shines on the field yet carries a volatile temperament that has drawn attention throughout his career.
“I shared the dressing room with Dziuba at Spartak, and even then it was obvious this guy had a bright future. He fights for every ball and has a knack for taking control of the game. He also cares for his teammates and never shies away from a challenge on the pitch. A truly outstanding player in many respects”, Bazhenov noted, adding that Dziuba’s character sometimes betrayed the necessary focus for lasting consistency. He suggested that if the personality had been more steady, the hard crossings and trials Dziuba faced might have been fewer or different. The veteran’s reflections were relayed by Sport Express to illustrate the paradox of a gifted footballer whose temperament sometimes complicates his journey.”
Dziuba made his move to Lokomotiv in early 2023. In May, he penned a fresh contract with the club, including an option to extend the deal by another year through the close of the 2023/24 season. The contract extension signaled Lokomotiv’s belief in Dziuba’s abilities and potential to contribute at a high level in the Russian Premier League while continuing to develop his leadership qualities on and off the field as part of the squad’s forward line.
During the current Russian Premier League campaign, Dziuba has appeared in three league matches and has found the back of the net once, demonstrating his ongoing push to translate talent into tangible results on the scoreboard. The early-season period has shown him battling for spots in the lineup, leveraging his experience from top clubs to impact games as a dynamic attacking option for Lokomotiv. Observers have noted that his persistence and willingness to fight for each opportunity are characteristic of a player who thrives under competitive pressure.
In parallel, a veteran from Spartak has also raised attention by hinting at tensions that have surfaced between Dziuba and a journalist. The remarks, conveyed in conversations with the press, underscore the multifaceted nature of Dziuba’s public persona and the scrutiny that accompanies prominent players in modern football. Such comments contribute to the broader narrative around a player who remains under intense observation from clubs, media, and fans as he continues to navigate his career in Russian football.