Petersburg to Istanbul
The Moscow Spartak student Artem Dzyuba reached an agreement with the Turkish club Fenerbahce to spend the upcoming season in Istanbul. The four-time Russian champion is set to join the Turkish side for the next campaign.
At 33, the striker is expected to earn more than 2.5 million euros annually, according to Match TV, which cited a close source. The discussions between Artem and a Fenerbahce representative took place during the winter period, with talks centering on a salary of 2.5 million euros per year plus bonuses tied to personal and team achievements, along with a signing bonus as a free agent.
Officials noted that the final terms were close to being finalized, with an official signing still pending at that stage.
News of the transfer becoming official emerged on May 22 when the striker posted a farewell video on social media and announced he would not renew his contract with Zenit Saint Petersburg, where he had played since 2015.
Over his Zenit tenure, Dzyuba appeared in 249 matches, scored 108 goals, and provided 70 assists, winning nine titles including four Russian Premier League titles, three Russian Super Cups, and two Russian Cups.
“It is impossible to predict what will happen to Artem”
Former Lokomotiv Moscow forward and Russia national team veteran Dmitry Bulykin commented that predicting Dzyuba’s adaptation to the Turkish league at this stage is difficult. In an interview, he emphasized that choosing Fenerbahce likely reflected a weighing of Pros and Cons and a move to compete in European tournaments.
Bulykin noted that success in a new league varies widely. He cited instances of players thriving after a move and others who struggle despite seemingly suitable environments. The overall takeaway is to wish Dzyuba good luck in the new setting, acknowledging that age does not automatically determine performance in the near term.
He also remarked that age won’t automatically hinder Dzyuba’s impact. Comparing him with players such as Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, he argued that what matters most is form, contribution to the team, and the ability to influence matches.
Former Spartak and Soviet Union goalkeeper Anzor Kavazashvili highlighted the drive to prove critics wrong as a key motivator for Dzyuba in Turkey. He praised the decision, noting the challenge of a first season abroad but stressing that the player must push himself to demonstrate value and stay motivated through consistent performances.
Looking ahead, Kavazashvili suggested that national team prospects remain uncertain and that the focus should be on proving worth on the field. He argued that the move could be an opportunity for Dzyuba to show resilience and leadership in a demanding football culture.
Former Russia national team head coach Boris Ignatiev commented that Dzyuba will need to win over local fans with hard work and memorable performances. He reflected on Dzyuba’s achievements with Zenit and other clubs, noting that the forward should now aim to translate his qualities to success abroad, hoping the experience benefits him as a player.
Ignatiev added that Dzyuba’s decision reflects a mature sense of purpose and that the forward is not an ordinary player. He described Dzyuba as someone who speaks his mind and pursues goals with clarity, recognizing that personal fulfillment comes from contributing to the team’s ambitions. The coach emphasized Fenerbahce’s esteemed history and passionate fanbase as an environment that can elevate Dzyuba’s game early on.
According to these perspectives, it is premature to declare the end of Dzyuba’s career once his contract with the Istanbul club expires. If he remains in good shape and maintains motivation, continuing his career elsewhere remains a possibility. Conditioning, pace, and physical presence will influence how long he stays competitive, as age affects players differently and Dzyuba’s strength in the box can still impose pressure on defenses.
The main criterion will be whether he fits the team’s tactical plan and consistently demonstrates the qualities that helped him excel in the past, including combativeness in the penalty area, physical battles, and holding the ball under pressure. The ultimate measure will be staying engaged with the sport and contributing meaningfully in matches.
Joining Fenerbahce represents a significant step for Dzyuba, given the club’s history and ambitious environment. Fans are expected to push him to perform from the opening whistle onward, fueling his determination as he adapts to a new league and style of play.
Observers believe the transfer will unfold with a careful start. The opening official match of the season is scheduled for mid-July, when Fenerbahce faces Dynamo Kiev in the second qualifying round of the Champions League, providing a high-stakes stage for Dzyuba to make an immediate impact.