A notable topic in international football circles centers on Nikita Khaikin, the goalkeeper who plies his trade with Bodø/Glimt in Norway and who has drawn attention from the Russian national team setup. Vitaly Kafanov, the goalkeeper coach for Russia, noted that Khaikin is among the names being considered for a future national team call-up. The coach emphasized that while he is a candidate for the squad, there are several factors to weigh before any decision is finalized.
Khaikin joined Bodø/Glimt in March 2019 and quickly established himself as a key figure in a club that would go on to win the Norwegian championship on two occasions during his tenure. His career path before moving to Norway included successful spells in the Israeli league, where he gained valuable experience at a high level of competition. In October of 2021, he was included in the Russian extended squad as the team prepared for fixtures against Cyprus and Croatia, marking the first time he was named in the broader national team circle. Despite this early recognition, he has not yet made an official appearance for Russia.
In 2023, Khaikin signed with an English club as part of his growing professional journey, but his time there did not include any first-team appearances before his departure in March of the following season. This chapter is often cited in discussions about his readiness for senior international duties and the potential path to the Russian national team.
On the international front, a recent friendly saw Russia compete against Cameroon at Moscow’s VTB Arena. Russia emerged with a 1-0 victory, with the lone goal scored by Fedor Chalov. The result underscored the ongoing experimentation and squad evaluation taking place as the national team maps out its competitive calendar.
Looking ahead, the Russian squad scheduled a match against Kenya, set to take place on a neutral site in Turkey. This fixture forms part of a broader training camp schedule that will lead into a subsequent gathering in mid-November as the team continues its preparation and evaluation process ahead of more crucial qualifying or tournament-related fixtures. The coaching staff has reiterated that the door remains open to players who can contribute depth and quality to the squad, including Khaikin, depending on performance and strategic considerations.
The discussion around Khaikin’s position with the national team also reflects the broader context of how goalkeepers are assessed and integrated into national plans. Coaches and selectors weigh club form, international exposure, and adaptability to different tactical systems. In Khaikin’s case, his experience in multiple European leagues and his track record with Bodø/Glimt provide a solid foundation for consideration, while national team commitments will hinge on ongoing performances, fitness, and the strategic direction of the coaching staff. [Source: Sports Express]