Russia national team update: fatigue concerns for head coach Karpin and strategic timing for contract decisions

The general secretary of the Russian Football Union, Maxim Mitrofanov, spoke about the current situation surrounding Valery Karpin, the head coach of the national team, noting that he appears deeply fatigued after a demanding period. Mitrofanov described Karpin as someone who loves serving the national squad, yet visibly tired. He proposed a brief break to restore his energy, emphasizing that Karpin remains a devoted football enthusiast who cares deeply about the team’s success and its long-term prospects. Mitrofanov also stressed that any decision to extend Karpin’s contract should be considered at the end of the current season, aligning with the normal cycle of evaluation and planning for the national program.