Roman Shirokov, who captained the Russian national team in the past, believes Spartak Moscow needs stability if it hopes to contend for the Russian Premier League title. His reflections were reported through RB Sport.
Shirokov argued that with consistent results, Spartak would begin to mount a championship challenge. He warned that without stability, the club risks slipping into financial strain and losing momentum. He also highlighted the team’s formidable attacking potential, praising the left back position and noting that the squad possesses strength going forward. The core issue, he said, lies in the defensive phase and how it is organized. He stressed that defense is a team responsibility and that all players must contribute to better collective defending, not just the back line.
At the start of the current campaign, Spartak enjoyed a historic run, opening with five wins across the league and the cup. However, the early optimism gave way to tougher results as the team faced setbacks in the Premier League. Losses came against Yekaterinburg Ural and St. Petersburg, and a defeat to Zenit underscored vulnerabilities. Throughout seven matches in the season, Guillermo Abascal’s side conceded at least one goal in every game, signaling a recurring defensive challenge that required urgent attention.
Shirokov did not mince words when addressing the team’s real problem. He suggested that the root of Spartak’s difficulties stems from inconsistency in performance and a lack of cohesion in defense. His assessment pointed to the need for improved game management, sharper positional discipline, and a more united approach to stopping opponents. In Shirokov’s view, a more stable framework behind the midfield and defense would translate into better results and a clearer path toward the club’s objectives for the season.
In discussing how Spartak can move forward, the former captain emphasized the importance of balance. A potent attack must be supported by a solid defensive plan, with players understanding their roles in transition, pressing, and tracking opponents. He noted that the squad has the talent to compete, but talent alone does not guarantee success. Coordination, collective effort, and consistent execution are essential if Spartak is to challenge for the title and avoid periodic slips that slow progress and threaten momentum.
Overall, the message from Shirokov centers on building a resilient, stable, and disciplined team culture. He envisions a Spartak that can sustain high-level performance across all competitions, translating offensive prowess into tangible wins while shoring up defensive robustness. The path forward, in his view, is clear: maintain results, tighten defense, and ensure every player contributes to a unified, game-to-game plan that keeps the club competitive at the highest level.