Former football player Alexander Mostovoy, formerly associated with the Russian national team, weighed in on the rumor mill surrounding Wendel’s potential exit from Zenit. Speaking to RB Sports, he offered a blunt assessment of the situation, arguing that losing such a crucial asset would sting, yet remaining realistic about the club’s capacity to adapt. In his view, Wendel stands among Zenit’s most influential players, and a departure would represent a significant shift for the squad. Still, Mostovoy emphasized that the club has depth, and the squad’s structure is such that it can absorb personnel changes without derailing the season. He cautioned, however, that a scenario where multiple players depart could complicate plans, making replacements essential but not insurmountable. In other words, the team could manage a talent drain, but the more players exit, the more challenging it becomes to maintain balance across the lineup.
Wendel joined Zenit in the autumn of 2020 and has since developed into a core figure for the team. Throughout the previous season, the Brazilian winger appeared in 33 official matches across all competitions for Zenit, contributing nine goals and four assists. His performances have earned him recognition in market assessments, with Transfermarkt valuing the player at around €24 million. This valuation reflects Wendel’s impact on the field, his versatility on the offensive end, and his ability to influence both scoring opportunities and build-up play. As with many high-profile players, such numbers translate into leverage in contract talks and potential transfers, which can shape the club’s strategic decisions in the near term. Wendel’s existing contract runs through the summer of 2027, providing Zenit with a clear window to navigate negotiations, whether that means extending the agreement or facilitating a move when the club finds a suitable match for its sporting and financial goals.
The club previously signaled openness to exploring options for Wendel should a serious opportunity arise. Sergey Semak, who has served as Zenit’s head coach, indicated that Zenit would permit the Brazilian international to pursue chances with another team if and when the right circumstances presented themselves. This stance reflects a pragmatic approach to talent management that many modern clubs adopt, balancing loyalty and competing priorities. It also underscores Zenit’s recognition of the evolving market for players, where strategic timing, player readiness, and financial considerations all converge to shape outcomes. As negotiations unfold, stakeholders will watch how the club aligns Wendel’s personal ambitions with Zenit’s long-term competitive plan, including squad depth, youth development, and the ongoing pursuit of domestic and European success.