Former USSR Goalkeeper Comments on Tedesco’s Move to Belgium
Anzor Kavazashvili, who once guarded the net for the USSR national team and Spartak Moscow, welcomed Domenico Tedesco’s appointment as head coach of the Belgium national team.
The choice of Tedesco for Belgium’s top coaching role is viewed as a meaningful step up in his career.
Kavazashvili notes that the moment may also highlight coaches working in Russia, suggesting that Western clubs still recognize talent regardless of geopolitical tensions. He argues that Belgian football’s respect for Tedesco is a sign of the sport’s broader meritocracy, even amid hostility toward Russia.
Historically, Tedesco led Spartak Moscow from 2019 to 2021, guiding the team to a runner-up finish in the 2020/21 season. He then took charge of RB Leipzig in December 2021.
In his first season with Leipzig, the club finished fourth in the Bundesliga and reached the Europa League semifinals.
His tenure with Leipzig ended on September 7, 2022, following a 1-4 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk in the opening match of the Champions League group stage.
Meanwhile, former public figure Zarema Salikhova commented on Tedesco’s Belgium appointment, making light of a rival reference in the process.
Attribution note: Commentary reflects public statements and media coverage as part of ongoing discussions about coaching appointments.