Vladimir Ponomarev, a veteran figure at CSKA Moscow, weighed in on the rumor about a potential return of Brazilian striker Vagner Love. Speaking with socialbites.ca, the former player offered a cautious assessment, suggesting that a comeback would not provide meaningful benefits to the club and might disrupt current plans.
He questioned whether Love could contribute in any substantial way at this stage. “Would Wagner really help CSKA in any capacity? That seems unlikely. How old is he now? Thirty-nine? In his prime, he was a nimble striker who moved well with the ball, made sharp runs, and understood the game. But at 39, his peak years are behind him. He may be seeking a fresh contract, yet there isn’t a clear reason to pursue such a move. The team already let go of Mario Fernandez, and that decision has proven advantageous. Repeating a similar gamble would be unwise. There are likely younger options available among the squad’s ranks. Advised, the leadership should resist inviting Love back, as it could complicate rather than advance the project,” Ponomarev stated.
Love’s link to CSKA extends from his long association with the club, where he spent periods from 2004 to 2012 and again in 2013. During those years, he contributed to the team securing the Russian Cup six times, the Russian Super Cup on four occasions, and the Russian Premier League title three times. The 2004/05 season also saw him lift the UEFA Cup, marking a high point in his European campaign. These achievements remain part of the club’s storied history, underscoring Love’s earlier impact on the squad’s success. (Source: socialbites.ca)
Statements from Evandro Ferreira, who previously managed Love, add another layer to the discussion. Ferreira indicated that Love has expressed a desire to finish his professional career with CSKA, a narrative that continues to fuel speculation. Yet the contemporary context for such a move must be weighed against the team’s current tactical needs, salary structures, and the long-term planning pursued by CSKA’s coaching staff and executives. (Source: socialbites.ca)