Vladislav Radimov, a former Zenit player, credits the team’s current coach Sergei Semak as the decisive force behind Zenit St. Petersburg’s dominance in the Russian Premier League. The veteran midfielder notes that the coach has been the key element in building and maintaining a conflict-free squad across five consecutive seasons, a foundation that pushed the club toward sustained success.
“The championship’s main ingredient is Semak”, Radimov remarked, highlighting the stability and leadership that have guided Zenit through title defenses and intense league campaigns with steady resolve. Several observers have argued that it would be a mistake not to win with the talent at Semak’s disposal, but Radimov counters that the triumph must be earned on the pitch, and he applauds Semak for steering the club toward it.
With four rounds remaining in the season, Zenit clinched the Russian title by defeating Moscow’s Spartak 3–2 in the 26th round. The win propelled Zenit to 64 points, a lead that left rivals with little room to catch up, while CSKA Moscow sat in second place with 51 points. The conclusion of the campaign marked Zenit’s fifth consecutive league title and the tenth in the club’s history, a feat that earned the team a second star for its emblem to reflect this enduring success.
Historically, Zenit’s most iconic era has included leadership figures who embody the club’s ambitions. The current squad also features standout Brazilian talent who have become integral to the team’s style and success.
Presently, seven Brazilian players feature for Zenit, contributing across the backline, midfield, and attack. Defenders Douglas Santos, Robert Renan, and Rodrigao anchor the defense; midfielders Wendel and Gustavo Mantuan help control the tempo; while forwards Malcolm and Claudinho provide the attacking thrust. Each player adds a distinct Brazilian flair to Zenit’s evolving footballing identity, combining technical skill with the tactical discipline demanded by the Russian league. [citation: Match TV]
The club’s Brazilian contingent reflects Zenit’s broader strategy of blending homegrown leadership with experienced international talent to sustain competitiveness at the highest level. This approach has helped Zenit maintain a consistent competitive edge, fostering a cohesive unit capable of adapting to the league’s physical demands and tactical challenges. [citation: club records]
As Zenit continues to build on its recent championship pedigree, supporters and analysts alike point to the synergy between Semak’s managerial philosophy and the players’ on-field execution. The coach’s ability to harmonize a diverse squad, manage egos, and cultivate a unified locker room remains a central pillar of the club’s ongoing success. [citation: team communications]
For fans, the storyline centers on a coach who has transformed a talented group into a championship-winning machine. For opponents, Zenit’s recent triumphs serve as a benchmark for how strategic leadership, squad harmony, and a steady, long-term plan can translate into consistent glory on the domestic stage. The narrative continues to unfold as Zenit aims to translate league success into deeper runs in regional and continental competitions. [citation: season summaries]”