A former transfer consultant connected to Spartak Moscow’s former owner Leonid Fedun, Franco Camozzi, shared insights into how the red-whites are faring under their new head coach Dejan Stankovic and offered predictions ahead of the upcoming clash with Akhmat in the fourth round of the Russian Premier League. Camozzi’s comments reflect a broader optimism about the club’s direction, especially after the coaching change and the early-season adjustments that accompany it.
With Stankovic at the helm, there appears to be renewed confidence around the squad. Camozzi pointed to performances against Dinamo and Krylia Sovetov as evidence that the team is adapting to the new manager’s system. He noted that Stankovic seems to have integrated well into the rhythm of the Russian top flight, a league known for its physical pace and tactical variety. In particular, Camozzi highlighted Manfred Ugalde, the young Costa Rican forward, as having settled into the squad, while Ezequiel Barco, the South American playmaker acquired from River Plate, has also begun to make a positive impression early in his Spartak career. The question now is whether Barco will take on a more central role, potentially challenging Quincy Promes for a starting position or extending his influence from the flanks as the season progresses. This consideration underscores the strategic choices facing Stankovic as he shapes a forward line capable of converting chances into goals. [Source: Odds.ru]
Camozzi also emphasized Barco’s early connection with the fans. Barco’s free-kick quality has already earned him affection among supporters, but the Italian noted that the real test is leadership and responsibility. He urged Barco to seize this moment and become a driving force for Spartak, especially in high-stakes matches. Spartak’s management will be watching closely whether Barco can translate his individual brilliance into tangible team success, particularly against Akhmat, a side that may pose a stern challenge early in the campaign. [Source: Odds.ru]
Under Stankovic’s leadership, Spartak’s league form has shown a mix of resilience and improvement. The club began with a setback, losing away to Orenburg by 0-2 in the opening match, but rebounded impressively in the following fixtures. A string of league victories followed, including a 3-1 win over Khimki and a 4-0 victory against Krylia Sovetov, signaling a return to the attacking footing expected from Spartak. In the cup competition, Spartak defeated Dynamo Moscow 3-0, reinforcing the idea that the squad can defend its goal while sustaining pressure at the other end. Those results have fueled a growing belief that Stankovic’s system—built on structure, pressing, and quick transitions—could yield a competitive edge as the season unfolds. [Source: Odds.ru]
Beyond tactical adjustments, Camozzi’s remarks touched on the broader transitional dynamics inside the club. The potential shift in personnel, including how Barco and Ugalde are deployed, could influence the team’s balance between creativity and solidity. The upcoming match against Akhmat is framed as a litmus test: can Spartak convert the momentum from recent outings into a decisive win that cements their place in the early standings? The assessment underscores a pragmatic view of the squad’s capabilities and a readiness to evolve as Stankovic shapes his lineup. [Source: Odds.ru]
Finally, Camozzi’s reflections suggested an ongoing evaluation of who will shoulder the scoring responsibilities as the season progresses. If Barco assumes a leadership role, he could become a central figure in Spartak’s attack, driving play and setting the tempo for teammates. If Promes remains in the mix, the competition for starting forward roles promises to keep the squad dynamic and unpredictable. In any case, the coming rounds will reveal whether Spartak can translate their potential into sustained results, with Stankovic’s tactical philosophy guiding the process. [Source: Odds.ru]