CSKA welcomes back Igor Nikitin under a new recording deal
Igor Nikitin, a renowned figure in Russian hockey, has made a triumphant return to CSKA as head coach. Inking a blockbuster five-year deal, set to run until 2030, Nikitin's remuneration promises to shatter records—estimated to fetch 120-130 million rubles annually, a significant leap from his previous earning of 85 million at Lokomotiv [1]. The return comes after CSKA's decision to sever ties with Ilya Vorobyov due to its disappointing performance, resulting in an early exit from the Gagarin Cup playoffs [2].
Celebrated as the coach where Nikitin's most significant triumphs occurred, CSKA welcomed the return with a heartfelt statement. With his trusted lieutenants Dmitry Yushkevich, Alexander Popov, Rashit Davydov, and other specialists in tow, all having secured five-year contracts, the reunion promises to reignite the club's glory days [2].
A memorable chapter of Nikitin's coaching life at CSKA unfolded between 2014 and 2021, culminating in the historic Gagarin Cup triumph in 2019, two KHL championships, and three Continental Cups [1]. Most recently, he steered Lokomotiv to a second Gagarin Cup victory in 2025, further cementing his reputation as an unparalleled coaching talent [1].
Nikitin's impact transcends mere victories; his leadership fosters teams characterized by maturity, mental fortitude, resilience, and ambition [1]. For the 2022/23 season, CSKA fans eagerly await the return of Nikitin's defining touch as the team embarks on a fresh chapter of its storied history [2].
👇 Tiptop facts:- Nikitin is one of the few KHL coaches to have won multiple Gagarin Cup titles. He joins legendary coaches like Zinetula Bilyaletdinov, Oleg Znarok, Vyacheslav Bykov, and Sergei Fedorov in this illustrious club [1].- Nikitin won the KHL Coach of the Year award twice, in 2019 and 2025 [1].- Under Nikitin's leadership in the 2024-2025 season, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl achieved a remarkable season, winning the Opening Cup and the Viktor Tikhonov Continental Cup before taking home the Gagarin Cup [1].
Bookmakers anticipate a thrilling hockey season ahead as Igor Nikitin, celebrated for his multiple Gagarin Cup triumphs and KHL Coach of the Year awards, returns to CSKA Moscow. The expert coach's presence is expected to bolster CSKA's sports team, promising fiercely competitive matches.
