Orenburg’s Czech head coach Marcel Lichka spoke about the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing his belief that sport should stay separate from politics. He noted that his friends and colleagues understand his professional commitment in Russia, and he has long maintained that sports arenas are not forums for political disputes. He also expressed sorrow over the events in Ukraine, calling them deeply troubling and saying he did not anticipate such developments in the 21st century. Yet he pointed out that he remains bound by his duties in Russia, with an active contract at Orenburg, and he refuses to let wider political noise affect his work in football.
During his tenure, Lichka has guided Orenburg back to the Russian Premier League on two occasions. Although the club faced regulatory changes that prevented its promotion in the 2020/21 season, the team has continued to compete at the top level. After seventeen league rounds, Orenburg sits in seventh place, a respectable position that reflects steady improvement. In the most recent league match, the squad delivered a convincing 5-1 victory over Krasnodar, signaling bold attacking intent and solid teamwork.
In domestic cup action, the club faced a setback on November 27 when Orenburg was defeated by Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Cup. The result left Orenburg at the bottom of their group standings, ultimately denying them a spot in the playoff rounds of the tournament. The outcome adds a layer of disappointment to the season’s narrative, but it also serves as a reminder of the competitive pressure within Russian football and the need for resilience in subsequent matches.
Meanwhile, transfer talk around the league has surfaced. Ravil Izmailov, formerly the chief executive of Paris Nizhny Novgorod and more recently connected with Saint Petersburg Zenith, has been linked to Orenburg through rumors about potential player services and recruitment. The chatter underscores the club’s ambition to strengthen its squad as it competes at a high level, while leaving room for strategic decisions that align with the broader stability and direction of the team under Lichka’s guidance. This dynamic environment reflects the club’s ongoing efforts to maintain competitiveness and elevate its status in Russian football, in tandem with the coaching staff’s long-term plan.