Former CSKA and USSR national team defender comments on Baktier Zainutdinov’s defensive form and potential transfer to Beşiktaş
A veteran defender who represented CSKA and the USSR national squad has weighed in on the recent performances of Baktier Zainutdinov, the army midfielder now drawing attention for his defensive unpredictability. In a frank discussion, the former player noted that Zainutdinov poses greater danger to his own goal than to his opponents when he is under pressure. The assessment centers on how the Kazakhstani midfielder tends to position himself in his own penalty area, where missteps can open the door to scoring chances for rival teams.
According to the veteran, Zainutdinov sometimes loses track of his defensive responsibilities, allowing opponents to gain a foothold near the goal. He described scenes where the player appeared to be pushed from behind, reacting with reactions that can create serious consequences for his side. This pattern, the analyst argues, has contributed to periods of defensive vulnerability for CSKA, occasionally costing the team in tight league contexts and affecting their network stability during matches.
The veteran offered a cautious possibility for Zainutdinov to adapt his approach in a different league. He suggested that if the Kazakhstani talent moves to Beşiktaş, the Turkish environment and tactical style could reveal strengths not as visible in his former league. The comment points to a broader reality in football: different leagues demand distinct defensive instincts, and a player who struggles in one system may thrive in another, especially when surrounded by teammates who complement his strengths. The reference hints at the potential for a leadership role if Zainutdinov can adjust his positioning and decision making to meet higher tempo demands and varied attacking patterns in Turkish football.
Subsequent industry chatter added a twist to the transfer narrative. An unnamed insider reported that a deal between CSKA and Beşiktaş was in place, with a reported transfer fee of five million euros plus a percentage of future resale earnings. This information has circulated within locker room rumours and social media circles, illustrating how transfer talks often ride the edge of public confirmation and private deliberation. While the specifics continue to circulate, the core point remains clear: Beşiktaş sees potential in Zainutdinov, and CSKA has positioned itself to negotiate a strategic exit should the terms align with their broader roster plans.
Another name that often surfaces in this context is Valery Kechinov, a former player known for long connections with Spartak and recent coaching stints in regional leagues. His insights are frequently cited in assessments of defensive and midfield transitions, particularly when a club seeks to balance experience with emerging talent in the squad. Kechinov’s public commentary tends to emphasize the importance of tactical versatility, the ability to read the play, and the impact of a midfielder’s defensive habits on the overall team structure. In this framework, Zainutdinov’s case becomes a case study in how a player’s defensive discipline translates across different competitive environments and managerial philosophies.