Summoned Spartans for an explanation by Kancelskis
In the ongoing 2025 Russian Premier League (RPL) season, one of Russia's most prosperous clubs, Spartak Moscow, is facing a challenging start under Dejan Stankovic's leadership. The team currently sits in 11th place after four rounds, accumulating only four points - a stark contrast to the expectations for a club of its stature [2][5].
Former Manchester United midfielder Andrei Kanchelskis, a renowned figure in Russian football, has voiced his concerns over Spartak's current predicament. He has expressed criticism towards the disallowed goal for Krasnodar in their match against Orenburg, highlighting the main problem he sees as the lack of transparency in Spartak's management [1].
Kanchelskis believes that the team's inconsistent performance, which has resulted in a poor league form, is a direct consequence of this lack of accountability [1]. He suggests that Spartak's management should apologise to the fans for the current situation and believes that the team will fight only for 4-5th place in the RPL season [1].
The team's poor form can be seen in their league results, with just one win in the opening round followed by a series of losses and draws [2][5]. Striker Manfred Ugalde, a notable signing in January 2024, has struggled, going through a long goal drought with only 1 goal in 16 games during the previous season [1].
The team's inconsistency is also evident in competitions, as they began the Russian Cup group stage well but faltered recently with a home draw and loss on penalties [2]. These struggles in crucial matches have raised concerns about the team's ability to perform under pressure.
Rumours are growing about the potential resignation of head coach Dejan Stankovic, with the upcoming high-profile match against Zenit seen as a potential determinant of his future with the club [2]. The team's performance in this crucial fixture will undoubtedly shape the direction of Spartak Moscow this season.
Key player and squad stats available as of August 2025 show some injury concerns and limited goal-scoring from key forwards, which may also be factors affecting team performance [3].
Meanwhile, in a positive note, the coach of Sochi, Moreno, has fulfilled his promise to donate half of his salary to the club [4]. This act of solidarity highlights the commitment and dedication of some coaches towards their clubs, even in challenging times.
As Spartak Moscow navigates through these challenges, the focus remains on the team's ability to turn their fortunes around and live up to the expectations of their fan base, which is the largest in Russia according to Kanchelskis [1]. The upcoming games will be crucial in determining the team's direction and potential for success in the remainder of the 2025 RPL season.
Bookmakers across European-leagues have expressed surprise at Spartak Moscow's poor start in the 2025 Russian Premier League (RPL), with Premier League odds suggesting a 4th or 5th-place finish for the team rather than a title challenge. The ongoing struggles of football club Spartak MoscowUnder Dejan Stankovic's leadership, the team has failed to impress, with inconsistent performance and a lack of goal-scoring from key forwards, as shown by Spartak's dismal win-loss record and Manfred Ugalde's prolonged goal drought.
