Andrey Kanchelskis, a former Manchester United star and former Russian national team stalwart, questioned Spartak Moscow’s prospects for clinching the Russian Premier League title. His comments, relayed by RB Sports, reflected a cautious view on the team’s path to glory.
He warned that the intense excitement around Spartak would fade only when a top attacking side demonstrates its quality by generating a flood of goals against the red and white. In his assessment, Spartak’s defense has long struggled to hold firm, a problem that has persisted across seasons. Even a seasoned defender such as Carerra struggled to stabilize the back line, underscoring a vulnerability that could derail championship ambitions. The defender’s analysis pointed to defensive gaps as Spartak’s biggest hurdle on the road to a title, and he cautioned that while there may be chances for the trophy, they could be misleading.
Following three rounds of the Russian Premier League, Spartak Moscow shares the lead with Krasnodar. In their opener, both clubs posted three wins, signaling a strong start. Nearby contenders include Yekaterinburg’s Ural and Wings of the Soviets in Samara, each securing two victories and staying within striking distance of the early table leaders.
In domestic cup action, Guillermo Abascal’s squad defeated Paris Nizhny Novgorod with a dramatic 5–4 scoreline in the second round of the Russian Cup group stage. The match showcased the team’s attacking intent and resilience, even as it exposed defensive frailties that supporters are closely watching as the season unfolds. The Cup run has added another layer to Spartak’s campaign, highlighting both the potential highs and the areas that require refinement as the club balances cup commitments with league ambitions.
Overall, the early phase of the season has combined moments of promise with notable concerns. Spartak Moscow’s fan base remains hopeful about building consistency across competitions, while critics emphasize the need for structural improvements in the back line and midfield protection. As the league progresses, precision in finishing, organization at the back, and pressure in transition will likely determine whether Spartak can translate initial momentum into sustained title contention. The season’s narrative continues to evolve as new fixtures test the squad’s depth and tactical adaptability. [citation]