An independent observer with close ties to Spartak explains what the head coach must prioritize. Sergei Shavlo, who previously served as the club’s general director, says Dejan Stankovic’s central duty is to balance attack with defense. Maksimenko has shown strong form, but the back line still needs more solidity. Sasha contributes at moments during a match, helping to stabilize the structure as play develops.
Stankovic was unveiled as Spartak’s head coach at the end of last season and began work in the summer. The Serbian tactician arrived from Ferencvaros in Hungary and has previously led Red Star Belgrade, bringing European experience to a team chasing consistency in the Russian Premier League.
Spartak has been in the Russian Premier League for 11 weeks and sits sixth in the table with 19 points. In the previous round, Stankovic’s side earned a decisive 3-0 win at home against Rostov. The next test is against the league leaders Krasnodar, a team eight points ahead of the Muscovites. This match is scheduled to take place in Moscow on Saturday, October 19, with a kickoff at 16:30 Moscow time.
Earlier, Stankovic faced criticism for a perceived lack of a clear football philosophy. Critics argued that Spartak needed a more defined tactical approach to maximize its potential.
Taken together, these updates outline a plan for Spartak under Stankovic: develop a balanced system that strengthens defense while maintaining attacking sharpness, with the aim of climbing the table and challenging the leaders as the season progresses.