Former footballer Alexander Mostovoy, who played for Celta and represented the Russia national team, weighs in on Guillermo Abascal, the head coach of Spartak Moscow. He told RB Sports that Abascal has a habit of airing grievances in the press, a pattern Mostovoy views as counterproductive and potentially harmful to the team’s unity. According to Mostovoy, there is a need for the coach to shift his focus from public criticisms to constructive leadership, building a mindset that translates into better performances on the pitch. He suggests that Abascal should take greater responsibility for the team’s results and channel his energy toward strategic preparation and player development rather than constant commentary on issues outside the field. The former midfielder added that a calmer approach might help the squad stay cohesive during challenging stretches and maintain confidence when the scoreboard does not reflect their aspirations.
In the latest Russian Cup group stage match, Spartak Moscow travelled away to face Paris NN and returned home with a convincing 3-0 victory. That win, secured on September 19, extended Spartak’s unbeaten run in the competition and helped solidify their position at the top of Quad D after four rounds. With twelve points collected from four fixtures, the club sits comfortably in first place, underscoring the effectiveness of their game plan and the execution of coach Abascal’s system in the early phase of the season. The triumph also served as a demonstration of the squad’s depth, with contributions from multiple players who have adapted quickly to the coach’s instructions and tactical philosophy.
Spartak has been competing in the Russian Premier League for eight weeks and sits in sixth place in the league with thirteen points. The contrast between cup success and league standings reflects the variability that often characterizes early-season campaigns, where teams juggle multiple competitions and adjust to new coaching styles. The upcoming schedule promises a stern test as Abascal’s side prepares to host Dynamo Moscow, one of the capital’s traditional rivals, in what is expected to be a highly charged encounter. That home fixture is slated for September 23 and will again require a balanced approach that blends disciplined defensive organization with the flexibility to exploit opposing weaknesses in transition and set-piece situations. The coaching staff has indicated a willingness to fine-tune pressing intensity and positional rotations, aiming to translate cup momentum into sustained league performance and to reinforce the collective mentality that supporters associate with Spartak’s identity.
Previously, Abascal named one of Russia’s best football players as part of recognizing the talents within the squad and highlighting the progress made under his leadership. This reflection came amid a broader conversation about developing domestic talent and strengthening the national league’s competitive edge. The coach’s broader objective appears to be creating a resilient, adaptable team capable of meeting the demands of a demanding calendar and the expectations of a passionate fan base. The ongoing season will test Abascal’s ability to manage rotations, maintain players’ confidence, and foster a winning culture that endures beyond individual results. In this context, the ongoing dialogue about press expectations, team accountability, and strategic clarity remains a central theme for Spartak as they navigate both cup competitions and league obligations.