Valery Gazzaev, who previously led CSKA Moscow as head coach and also guided the Russian national team, stated that the army club has ambitious targets in the Russian championship. He emphasized, however, that reinforcements are essential if CSKA is to compete for top places. His remarks were carried by Sports Express as a guiding message for the club’s current strategy.
Gazzaev pointed out that the team is far from satisfied with its present standing, despite a serious work ethic, visible progress, and occasional strong performances. He argued that to push for high-scoring outcomes, the squad needs new players across most positions, with the sole exception of the goalkeeper. Only with a strengthened lineup can CSKA realistically strive for elite results. Gazzaev also noted that club management has signaled a clear willingness to support the coaching staff through targeted recruitment, highlighting a sense of shared responsibility for future success.
As the Russian Premier League enters its midpoint, CSKA sits in eighth place after 18 rounds, having accumulated 28 points. The team faces a demanding portion of the schedule as the battle for European qualification and domestic silverware intensifies. The league table remains tightly packed, with several clubs in contention and every match carrying significant impact on the final standings.
Meanwhile, Krasnodar concluded the autumn segment of the campaign at the top of the table with 38 points. In the 18th round, Krasnodar managed to edge CSKA by a 1-0 scoreline. Zenit remains close behind in second place, with a narrow gap in points, while Dinamo sits third with 32 points. The standings reflect a highly competitive race at the top and underscore the stakes as clubs prepare for the continuation of the season after the winter break.
Looking ahead, the season will resume with Russian Cup fixtures in February, providing CSKA and its pursuers with further opportunities to improve their positions and demonstrate form. The 19th round of the Premier League is scheduled to begin on March 3, presenting a fresh set of challenges and potential turning points for the campaign. These forthcoming matches will be critical as teams refine tactics, integrate new signings, and build momentum heading toward the spring phase of the season.
On a separate note, Gazzaev has connections with notable figures in football circles, including past associations with Alexandra Golovina, which are part of his broader public profile. The focus, however, remains squarely on the team’s performance and the strategic moves needed to navigate a demanding league schedule in the months ahead, with pundits and supporters watching CSKA’s development closely as the club pursues its stated ambitions.