Ruslan Litvinov, a midfielder for Spartak Moscow, spoke about the ongoing controversy surrounding the club and its striker Alexander Sobolev. The player was briefly pulled from team training by coach Guillermo Abascal after missing a scheduled breakfast, an incident that quickly drew attention beyond the locker room. Litvinov framed the episode as overblown by media and fans, noting that the issue has become a talking point that followed Sobolev far beyond the day it occurred. He recalled the episode with a touch of humor, asking why Sobolev showed up for the breakfast at all, and then highlighting how the matter has been widely publicized.
On October 18, journalist Ivan Karpov reported that Abascal decided to discipline Sobolev for what was described as a breach of team rules. In the days that followed, Sobolev continued to train with the Russian national team, keeping his international duties in view while the domestic club matter unfolded. This sequence of events added another layer to the club’s current dressing room dynamics and raised questions about the coaching approach and player accountability in a high-pressure season.
Later, Metaratings suggested that the coach was unhappy with Sobolev’s preparation and attitude toward training, while also noting some discontent from Sobolev toward defender Georgiy Dzhikia, allegedly tied to training standards and focus. The report implied a broader discussion about professionalism and the expectations set by the coaching staff for all squad members, especially during a congested fixture schedule and a tight race in the league standings.
In the match against Paris NN in the Russian Premier League, Sobolev was not part of the starting lineup but appeared as a substitute. Spartak secured a 2-0 victory, yet Sobolev did not take part in any goal-scoring moments or notable plays. The team performance and tactical setup under Abascal drew attention, with observers evaluating how players who are returning to form fit into the squad’s strategic plan as the season progresses.
Earlier, Abascal addressed rumors about a potential conflict with Sobolev, offering a candid perspective that underscored focus on preparation and collective goals. The coach emphasized that the club prioritizes discipline and professional conduct, reinforcing that public speculation does not reflect the daily routines and commitments of the players. The broader narrative around the incident illustrates how media coverage can amplify what is, in essence, a routine disciplinary decision within a professional football environment.