Midfielder Rostov and the Russian national team member Danil Glebov spoke candidly about why Russian clubs have struggled in European competition. He emphasized the growing pace and scheduling differences that come with continental play and noted that domestic squads were unaccustomed to the demanding rhythm of European football. Glebov stressed that teams accustomed to European calendars can recover and prepare for matches efficiently, while those facing a single weekly game found the shift to two matches per week particularly challenging. His remarks were shared with Sport Express and reflect a broader discussion about the adaptation gap between Russian clubs and their European peers.
Historically, the International Football Federation (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) decided to suspend the Russian national team and all Russian clubs from competitions governed by these bodies. This exclusion marked a significant interruption for Russian football on the European stage, limiting opportunities for exposure and development against top teams.
In the 2022 European season, Zenit stood out as an exception, as other Russian clubs did not participate in European cups. Zenit’s campaign ended at the 1/16 finals of the Europa League after a 2-3 aggregate defeat to Real Betis. Spartak Moscow, which had secured a place in the playoffs by advancing from the group stage, faced the tough task of bridging that gap in the knockout rounds. The broader consequence of these outcomes was a discussion about the competitive gap between Russian teams and their European counterparts, including issues of squad depth, injury management, and strategic rotation.
The topic continues to echo in conversations about domestic talent development, tactical approaches, and the potential paths back to regular European competition. Analysts and former players alike have weighed in on how Russian clubs could recalibrate their training programs and match preparation to better align with European standards, while also considering the unique realities of Russian football calendar constraints. This ongoing dialogue highlights the need for a holistic strategy that supports youth development, stronger club structures, and improved competition schedules to help Russian teams compete more effectively on the continent. Former players have offered varied perspectives on whether immediate changes are feasible or if longer-term reforms are required to restore consistency at the European level. In this climate, the role of national team leadership and club management remains crucial as they navigate the interplay between domestic leagues and international ambitions, aiming to rebuild confidence and performance across all levels of Russian football. (Source: Sport Express)