Andrei Kanchelskis, the former Manchester United star and former Russia international, has questioned Alexander Sobolev’s on-field behavior. Speaking to RB Sports, Kanchelskis suggested that Sobolev has been exaggerating contact to sway referees and influence match outcomes.
According to the ex-player, such play harms Sobolev more than it helps. He warned that Sobolev risks earning a reputation for simulation that could lead officials to ignore real fouls in the future. The concern is not merely about trying to draw a foul early in a game, but about relying on theatrics in an era of video assistant referee systems. Kanchelskis urged Sobolev to shed a childlike tendency to embellish contact and focus on tangible contributions to the team.
The incident amid the 1/4 final of the Russian Cup saw Sobolev flagged for simulation in a tense clash with Orenburg. The match ended in a 1–0 defeat for Spartak Moscow, and Sobolev was involved in a late-apparent attempt to win a penalty. The moment underscored persistent questions about timing and balance in his approach to contact at crucial moments.
In the current Russian Premier League season, Sobolev has appeared in 13 matches, recording two goals and five assists. The pattern of involvement has drawn attention beyond the stat sheet. Recent reports mentioned concerns raised by Spartak Moscow head coach Guillermo Abascal about Sobolev’s attitude and punctuality around training meals, with talk of lateness affecting the team’s routines. Such remarks hint at a broader discourse about professionalism and consistency on and off the pitch.
Observers note that Sobolev’s performances remain impactful in space and tempo, even as questions linger about the perceived simulation. The broader discussion touches on how young talents can navigate pressure, media scrutiny, and the expectations of a club iconography that carries heavy weight inside modern football. The interplay between a player’s development, coaching feedback, and disciplinary signals can shape how his career unfolds amid intense scrutiny.
There is a sense that Sobolev may face a turning point as coaches and veterans encourage discipline, sharper body control, and a clearer instinct for when contact demands a reaction. Meanwhile, fans and analysts watch closely for signs of growth that translate into consistent performances, leadership on the field, and a reputation built on reliability rather than theatrics. The evolving narrative around Sobolev emphasizes the value of balance, respect for refereeing decisions, and a mature approach to matches at high stakes.
Ultimately, the debate over simulation reflects broader themes in football today: the impact of video technology on officiating, the responsibilities of rising stars, and the ongoing effort to separate genuine physical ruggedness from deceptive moves. For Sobolev, the path forward seems clear: demonstrate grit and accuracy in finishing, contribute meaningfully in buildup play, and let skills speak louder than embellished contact. The conversation around him will likely continue as he seeks to cement a lasting legacy with Spartak Moscow.