Oleg Romantsev, the former Spartak coach, views a potential striking duo of Artem Dziuba and Alexander Sobolev as an intriguing option for Spartak Moscow should the 34-year-old forward rejoin the red and white. Romantsev’s assessment is cited by Sport Express as part of ongoing discussions about market options and tactical flexibility in the upcoming season.
The veteran coach argues that Dziuba’s return could bring versatility to Spartak’s attack and create more movement in the front line. Paired with Sobolev, the two could form a dynamic pairing that tests opposing defenses with varied angles and movement. Romantsev acknowledges that some supporters may resist Dziuba’s arrival, but believes that on-pitch performance will ultimately settle any doubts as the season unfolds. This perspective highlights how strategic signings are judged not only by reputation but by how well they integrate into the team’s established rhythm and planning. (Source: Sport Express)
Romantsev also emphasizes that Dziuba has not lost his competitive edge, pointing to the forward’s contributions during Lokomotiv’s strong finish in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign. His assertion rests on recent form and the footballing temperament Dziuba has shown across leagues, suggesting that physical and mental readiness remains intact for high-level competition. The coach’s view aligns with the notion that experience, when combined with current form, can enrich a team’s attacking options as it pursues higher standings. (Source: Sport Express)
Historically, Dziuba joined Lokomotiv in February 2022, a period that saw him score eight goals and provide five assists in 13 appearances. Those numbers played a pivotal role in lifting Lokomotiv away from the relegation zone and helping the club secure an eighth-place finish in the 16-team Russian Premier League. The performance indicates the striker’s ability to influence results quickly, a valuable trait for a side hoping to balance league position with cup campaigns. This context underpins Romantsev’s considerations about how a high-impact forward could alter Spartak’s attacking dynamics. (Source: Sport Express)
Beyond the Dziuba-Sobolev discussion, Romantsev also weighed in on the future of Promes after his departure from the Netherlands and subsequent legal matters. The conversation touched on how player transfers and reputational factors impact squad planning, especially for a club with ambitious benchmarks in domestic competitions. The strategic takeaway centers on how Spartak could navigate personnel changes while maintaining continuity in attack, set-piece efficiency, and pressing intensity. (Source: Sport Express)