Vasily Berezutsky, known as a solid pillar of CSKA Moscow’s defence during his prime, recently reflected on his career in a long, candid interview with Nobel Arustamyan on YouTube. In that conversation, he shared a personal dream that goes beyond trophies and titles: a world at peace. He spoke with a calm certainty, describing a longing not just for end to conflicts but for a universal sense of safety and shared humanity. His words carried a quiet hope that, after years of competition and pressure, people would recognize what truly matters and focus on constructive goals that uplift communities rather than divide them. The essence of his message was simple and surprisingly universal: peace is the foundation upon which all other aspirations can flourish, and its realization would make room for a more compassionate, cooperative world.
Berezutsky painted a picture of his ideal future as one where communities coexist with mutual respect and where the noisy demands of sports, politics, and daily life do not drown out the basic need for security and dignity. He suggested that perhaps the world has drifted toward chasing unnecessary pursuits, while some of the most meaningful human aims—safety, stability, and a shared sense of belonging—await renewed emphasis. In his view, achieving broad, lasting peace would also unlock a space in which people could pursue their passions, whether in sports, the arts, or everyday work, without fear or hostility. The interview captured a rare blend of humility and conviction as he tied global harmony to the smaller, everyday choices people make when they interact with one another.
Vasily Berezutsky’s playing career began with Torpedo-ZIL, and his professional journey with CSKA Moscow spanned more than a decade and a half. From 2002 through 2018, he wore the CSKA jersey with distinction, contributing to a period that fans still remember for its relentless drive and organizational discipline. With the Army club, he celebrated six Russian championships, a record of consistent success that underscored the team’s dominance during those years. He also added seven National Cup victories to his résumé, and an appearance in European competition that culminated in a UEFA Cup triumph, a highlight that remains a landmark in the club’s modern history. His retirement in 2018 marked the end of an era for CSKA and a chapter that demonstrated how leadership, perseverance, and teamwork can translate into enduring club legend.
On the international stage, Berezutsky represented Russia with distinction for more than a decade, earning a place in the national squad from 2003 to 2016. He accumulated 105 caps and found the back of the net five times, a contribution that reflected his versatility and understanding of the game from the back line. His performances helped Russia secure a bronze medal at the UEFA Euro 2008 finals, staged across Austria and Switzerland, a tournament remembered for its dramatic moments and competitive spirit. In that campaign, the team advanced through the knockout rounds, delivering a memorable win over the Netherlands before falling to Spain in the semi-finals. The experience left a lasting imprint on Berezutsky and on Russian football fans who witnessed those high-stakes moments with him.
After stepping away from professional football, Berezutsky transitioned into coaching, taking roles with clubs in the Netherlands, as well as with CSKA and Krasnodar. His move into coaching underlined a clear philosophy: the value of leadership on the training ground can shape not just players, but the culture of entire teams. The experience in different footballing environments added to his strategic perspective, enriching his ability to mentor emerging talents, manage squads through the pressures of a long season, and cultivate an environment where players can grow both technically and as people. Throughout this period, he maintained a steady commitment to contributing to football in meaningful ways, leveraging his on-field experience to help others navigate the challenges of professional sport.
There is no doubt that Berezutsky’s public statements reflect a thoughtful approach to his legacy in sport and society. He has indicated, in multiple remarks, a preference for exploring opportunities beyond Russia, embracing a wider international horizon that aligns with his broader values and aspirations. This perspective highlights a modern football career: one that transcends borders and language, where leadership, resilience, and a clear-eyed sense of purpose continue to influence players, coaches, and fans alike. In sum, Berezutsky’s journey reads like a blueprint of dedication—on the field, in the locker room, and in life—rooted in the belief that sport has the power to unite people when there is a shared commitment to respect, hard work, and humane ideals.