Spartak’s Coach Explains Absence of Poryadin and Goldobin from the National Team
Spartak Moscow head coach Alexei Zhamnov clarified why Pavel Poryadin and Nikolai Goldobin did not participate with the Russian national squad during the Channel One Cup matches. His remarks, quoted in the press, centered on the distinction between the national team and the broader Russia 25 lineup, and stressed the medical reasons behind the players’ absence.
According to Zhamnov, the medical reports prepared by Spartak’s medical staff were forwarded to the national federation, outlining that both players needed time to recover from their injuries. He noted that no complaints had come from the federation, and all necessary documents had been provided. The coach emphasized that the situation had been misunderstood or exaggerated by some observers, insisting that the approach was straightforward and based on medical guidance rather than any other considerations.
The Channel One Cup is scheduled to take place in St. Petersburg from December 14 to 17. The event features the Russia 25 team as well as the national teams of Belarus and Kazakhstan, along with teams composed of players from the Stars and VHL leagues. The tournament provides a platform for younger and emerging players to showcase their skills on an international stage while older players participate for development and decision-making purposes within the national program.
The international hockey landscape has seen shifts in participation rules over the past years. In the spring of 2022, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) announced restrictions on Russian players competing in international events, even under neutral status. This stance also affected Russia’s ability to host major events, with the federation stripping the country of the right to stage the junior world championship on home soil in 2023. The implications of these sanctions have been felt across national programs, influencing selection strategies and player development paths for Russian teams as they navigate competing priorities and timelines.
Within this broader context, the leadership of the national program has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding team composition, player availability, and the balance between veteran presence and opportunities for rising stars. The discourse often touches on how medical, logistical, and strategic considerations intersect when decisions are made about which players travel, which stay with their clubs, and how such choices align with long-term development goals for both the national team and the sport in the country.
Historically, discussions around team selection during international windows have been intense, with fans, analysts, and sponsors all weighing in on the implications for national pride and performance. The current episode reflects the ongoing effort to manage a complex calendar, safeguard player health, and maintain a clear path toward future international competitiveness. The emphasis remains on transparent communication, medical prudence, and adherence to federation guidelines as key elements guiding these multi-faceted decisions.