The former head coach of Lokomotiv and Dinamo, Miodrag Bozovic, weighed in on Vasily Berezutsky’s stance, arguing that the younger generation should not be forced to abandon Russia for their careers. His remarks were cited by Sports24.
Bozovic emphasized that every player has a personal viewpoint. While he acknowledged that most people may not share Berezutsky’s perspective, he praised Berezutsky as a talented footballer who, like any athlete, must balance professional ambitions with personal loyalties. He cautioned that during times of military conflict, public criticism of one’s homeland is unhelpful and potentially damaging. He suggested that after the conflict ends, players can express themselves more freely, but at present there is a duty to support the country in difficult moments and to allow younger athletes to consider their options without pressure.
In a separate interview with journalist Nobel Arustamyan, Berezutsky stated that a player who wants to compete at a high level must act decisively. He argued that the decision to move abroad should be based on the goal of reaching elite levels, regardless of the country or flag involved, and irrespective of the circumstances surrounding the move.
Berezutsky spent his professional career with CSKA Moscow from 2002 to 2018. During his time with the Army club, he earned six league titles, won the National Cup seven times, and claimed a UEFA Cup triumph. He announced his retirement in 2018, ending a storied era with one of Russia’s most prominent teams.
Previously, the topic of Berezutsky’s statements regarding leaving Russia was discussed among fans and analysts, including Mineev, who noted remarks about espionage in the context of the broader debate about national allegiance and career mobility in professional football.