Slutsky weighs in on Jokanovic’s Dynamo tenure amid uneven form in Russia’s top division
Leonid Slutsky, a former head coach of the Russian national team as well as prominent clubs such as CSKA Moscow and Rubin Kazan, argues that Dynamo Moscow should not dismiss head coach Slavisha Jokanovic despite a period of inconsistent results in the Russian Premier League. Slutsky emphasized that coaching performance does not always directly mirror player development. Injuries, self-assessment, and other setbacks can complicate a team’s trajectory. Speaking on a national broadcast, Slutsky said he would not have been as decisive as some pundits who called for Jokanovic’s removal, particularly because Dynamo still retains realistic chances for a medal this season.
In the 21st round, Dynamo suffered a 0-2 defeat to Sochi. Through the current campaign, Dynamo has secured ten victories, recorded five draws, and endured five losses, placing the team in fifth position with 35 points. The club has shown resilience in high-pressure matches, and the performance trajectory remains a focal point for supporters and analysts alike as the season progresses.
Slutsky coached Dynamo Moscow during a previous stage of his career and brings a wealth of experience from European and domestic competition. Jokanovic, who took charge of the Moscow club in June 2022, previously led Sheffield United, with his spell there ending in November 2021. The managerial transition has been part of Dynamo’s broader strategy to stabilize results while maintaining competitive ambition in Russia’s top flight.
Earlier remarks attributed to Slutsky touched on the decision-making process within the national team setup, including Valery Karpin’s selection policy regarding players above the age of thirty. The discussion underscored ongoing debates about squad composition, aging dynamics, and the balance between youthful potential and veteran experience for Russia’s national program. [citation needed: contemporary interviews and press coverings]