In a recent announcement, Kirill Tereshin, who oversees Events and Sponsorship Activations for the Russian Football Union, revealed that Massimo Carrera will coach the world team in a commemorative retro match honoring Ilya Tsymbalar. The plan was conveyed by Sports Express, signaling a high-profile lineup for the event.
Tereshin emphasized that Carrera’s involvement will delight Spartak Moscow supporters, noting that inviting the former Spartak mentor was a deliberate choice to bridge past and present. He also suggested that Oleg Ivanovich Romantsev should be on the technical bench for the red and whites, underscoring the club’s cherished history and leadership on the sidelines.
The organizers also highlighted their intent to salute the club’s veterans. They expressed a desire to see icons such as Nikita Pavlovich Simonyan, Alexander Bagratovich Mirzoyan, Rinat Dasaev, and Vagiz Khidiyatullin in the locker room, underscoring the respect for Spartak’s storied legacy and the enduring bond between players and fans.
Carrera’s team will feature global football legends including Emmanuel Adebayor, Fernando Morientes, Santiago Cañizares, Florent Malouda, and other renowned names who are expected to bring a blend of experience and flair to the match. On Spartak’s red and white side, the squad will draw from the 1990s and early 2000s era, with a invitation list that includes foreign-born players Robson, Tchuyce, and Marcao, illustrating a vibrant mix of talent that transcends national boundaries.
Historically, Tsymbalar’s era with Spartak saw the club secure the Russian Championship six times and clinch the National Cup on two occasions, achievements that organizers aim to celebrate through this commemorative game. The event will honor the enduring impact of Tsymbalar’s leadership and the club’s golden period, inviting fans to reflect on a chapter that remains pivotal in the team’s narrative.
As the preparations unfold, some observers have revisited Carrera’s selection process for the world team, weighing the potential benefits against traditional expectations. Yet the overarching aim remains clear: to create a memorable spectacle that unites generations of supporters, showcases world-class football figures, and honors the legacy of Spartak Moscow while marking Tsymbalar’s contribution to the sport in a meaningful way.