Moscow Spartak’s general manager, Oleg Malyshev, clarified that Vladimir Slishkovich did not depart the club over money. The discussion around his exit centered on coaching ambitions rather than financial incentives, Malyshev explained to RB Sports.
“Actually, it wasn’t a money issue. We wanted him to stay. At first Vladimir seemed to agree, then he said that he wanted to work as a head coach. We have not created any obstacles”, Malyshev stated, outlining the club’s stance on the matter.
Sliskovich, who previously served on the technical staff under former Spartak boss Guillermo Abascal, stepped in as caretaker following Abascal’s dismissal. The interim period proved productive, with Spartak embarking on a string of unbeaten results under his guidance. The team ultimately ended the season fifth in the Russian Championship, amassing 50 points, a result that reinforced the club’s position in the top tier and set expectations high for the upcoming campaign, in which Dejan Stankovic was lined up as the contenders’ head coach.
The Russian Premier League title race stretched to the final round, where Zenit, Dynamo Moscow, and Krasnodar all faced decisive fixtures. Zenit clinched the national championship after defeating Rostov 2-1 in the closing round, finishing with 57 points. Dynamo Moscow secured runners-up honors with a 1-0 victory over their rivals, while Spartak had to settle for a strong finish near the top, reflecting the competitiveness that defined the season.
Looking back, Sliskovich drew a stark comparison between Spartak and a single, indivisible stone, a metaphor that underscored his belief in unity and resilience within the squad. The reference highlighted his view that collective effort and steadfast principles could drive the club forward, even amid leadership changes and the high-pressure environment of Russian football.
With the season behind them, Spartak prepared for new leadership and a future shaped by strategic decisions on coaching, player development, and squad rebuilding. The move to appoint Dejan Stankovic signaled a fresh direction, aiming to restore consistency and elevate the club’s standing in a league known for its depth and competitive balance. Stakeholders watched closely as the club outlined its vision for the coming year, balancing ambition with pragmatic steps to consolidate their position among Russia’s football elite.