The inaugural training session for Spartak Moscow players under the guidance of Serbian manager Dejan Stankovic is scheduled to happen on June 21 at the club’s Tarasovka base. This update was communicated through the team’s official channels, confirming the start of the pre-season program for the new coaching era. The session will set the tone for a season shaped by fresh ideas and a renewed emphasis on collective fitness, tactical understanding, and squad cohesion after the recent managerial changes.
Ahead of the upcoming training camp, Spartak players will undergo a thorough medical examination on June 18, followed by a series of functional readiness assessments. These evaluations are designed to establish baseline physical condition, identify any lingering issues, and tailor conditioning plans to individual needs. Players who are part of national team duties will join the club’s preparations once their international commitments wind down, ensuring a smooth transition back into club responsibilities.
Spartak announced on May 16, 2024 that Serbian tactician Dejan Stankovic had been appointed as head coach, with plans to commence duties from the 2024/25 season. The agreement spans two years, reflecting the club’s intent to build a stable leadership framework after the departure of the previous coach, Vladimir Sliskovic, who had taken the role following Guillermo Abascal’s dismissal. Stankovic arrives with a history of success and a track record of guiding teams to domestic glory, bringing a blend of tactical discipline and competitive experience to the Red-White side.
Stankovic’s coaching resume includes notable stints with top clubs across Europe. He previously led Red Star Belgrade to domestic titles, cementing his reputation as a winner in Serbian football. His tenure at Ferencvaros in Hungary also yielded championship results, while his time with Sampdoria in Italy added international exposure to his coaching repertoire. These experiences have helped shape his approach, emphasizing organized defense, quick transitions, and a proactive attacking mindset that aligns with Spartak’s ambitions.
During his playing career, Stankovic achieved recognition at the highest levels, including Italian league titles with Inter Milan and Lazio, and a triumph in the UEFA Champions League. His successful playing spell provides him with intimate understanding of the pressures and demands faced by players at the club, which can translate into effective leadership and mentorship for the squad. The decision to appoint him signals Spartak’s intent to leverage his breadth of experience to drive performance and performance culture from day one, both on the training ground and in competitive match environments.
A former Spartak player offered remarks after the appointment, noting that the choice of Stankovic was unexpected within certain circles. The reaction underscored the broader conversation around strategic direction and the expectations that come with bringing in a high-profile, internationally seasoned coach. As the team progresses through pre-season preparations, all eyes will be on how Stankovic translates his extensive playing career and coaching philosophy into tangible improvements across the squad, from conditioning levels to on-pitch coordination and tactical consistency.