The group of Brazilian players connected to Zenit Saint Petersburg, including Claudinho, Malcolm, Robert Renan, and Gustavo Mantuan, along with their agent, Luis Fernando Garcia, have publicly indicated they do not expect to depart Zenit during the upcoming off-season. Garcia emphasized that there has been no approach or offer for any of his clients, stating that there has been no direct contact with interested clubs. This stance comes amid ongoing speculation about potential moves, but the current landscape suggests stability within the squad for now. The situation highlights Zenit’s ability to retain core players while the club continues its campaign in the Russian Premier League.
In the 2022/23 Russian Premier League season, Sergei Semak’s squad demonstrated their strength by defeating Spartak Moscow 3-2 in round 26, securing the championship title ahead of schedule. This victory marked Zenit’s fifth consecutive league trophy and the tenth in the club’s history, a milestone celebrated as the team earned a second star for their emblem to reflect these achievements. The win underscored Zenit’s dominance in Russian football and reinforced their status as a benchmark club in the region.
As the 27th round approached, the Zenit vs. Krasnodar match took place on May 13 in St. Petersburg. The fixture stood as a pivotal moment in the closing stages of the season, with Zenit aiming to cap the campaign on a high note in front of their home supporters. After the final whistle, the blue-and-white team prepared to celebrate the successful campaign, recognizing the efforts of players, coaches, and staff who contributed to the title run.
There has also been commentary about Zenit’s leadership from former CSKA defender Andrey Solomatin, who has praised Sergei Semak’s management, describing him as one of the best coaches in Russia. The broader discussion around the club emphasizes the combination of tactical acumen, squad depth, and the club’s continued ability to attract and retain top Brazilian talents who have become integral to Zenit’s recent success.