"In the previous season, Krasnodar fielded the highest number of mercenaries"
In the recently concluded Russian Premier League (RPL) season, CSKA Moscow finished third, while Lokomotiv placed sixth. Looking ahead to the upcoming 2024/25 RPL season, Krasnodar is expected to lead in the number of foreign footballers used, following a series of strategic signings during the summer transfer window.
Krasnodar, under the management of head coach Murat Yakin, has bolstered its squad with the addition of several new foreign players. Central defender Nikolai Stezhko joined from Chernomorets, while Zubal Junior, a Brazilian defender, and goalkeeper Alexander Koraykin, previously of Rodina, have also joined the ranks. In addition, the club has signed Brazilian winger Gustavo Sanchez and midfielder Douglas Augusto, with Yuri Gazinsky departing during the transfer window.
Striker Fedor Smolov is one of the notable departures from Krasnodar, leaving the club after a successful tenure. The team will start the new season on July 20, with their first match being an away game against Pari NN. On July 29, they will host Samara's Wings of the Soviets in the Russian Cup.
Despite the heavy investment in foreign talent, Krasnodar has maintained a balance by fielding an average of eight Russians and 12 foreigners during the 2024/25 RPL season. This approach is in line with the general trend of RPL clubs, such as Krasnodar, Lokomotiv Moscow, Zenit Saint Petersburg, and CSKA Moscow, who rely on foreign players but also adhere to league regulations promoting domestic talent.
Lokomotiv, for instance, used the fewest foreign players in the 2024/25 RPL season, with 19 Russians and 4 foreigners. Zenit, historically, has made heavy investments in foreign stars, including high-profile attackers and defenders. CSKA Moscow has a long history of balancing foreign talent in attacking roles and domestic players in defensive/midfield roles.
While the exact usage and impact of these foreign signings in the 2024/25 RPL season remain to be seen, it is clear that Krasnodar is gearing up for a strong campaign with their strategic acquisitions. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly anticipating the start of the new season to see how these new additions will contribute to the team's performance.
For more detailed analysis of player usage, such as minutes played, starting appearances, impact metrics, and tactical roles, official statistics or club reports will be required post-season. These insights will provide a comprehensive understanding of how Krasnodar, along with other RPL clubs, utilise their foreign signings to achieve success in the league.
Krasnodar's foreign footballer acquisitions, such as Nikolai Stezhko, Zubal Junior, Alexander Koraykin, Gustavo Sanchez, and Douglas Augusto, might help them in the upcoming 2024/25 European-leagues season, especially in the Russian Premier League. Despite an increase in foreign players, the club is committed to abiding by league regulations promoting domestic talent, ensuring an average of eight Russians and 12 foreigners in their squad.
