Football Season Guide

CSKA Moscow were consistently among the top sides in the league last season as Vladimir Fedotov's appointment proved quite a smart decision as he led the Army Men to their best finish in terms of points and position since 2018, while also winning the Russian Cup by beating Krasnodar in the final. CSKA were also quite fun to watch and really bold and aggressive in attack despite having quite a pragmatic coach that likes to use three at the back. Now the challenge for Fedotov is to build on that promising season and threat Zenit's hegemony at the top of the standings more seriously. CSKA never really got close to the Sky Blues from Saint Petersburg in terms of threatening to get into a title race and will look to cut out the unnecessary slip-up and mistakes against lesser opposition. The squad look pretty much unchanged compared to last season for now as CSKA have been reserved and patient in their dealings. They need some additions in defence and probably in attacking midfield. Fedor Chalov is staying put despite constant links to other teams and will aim to build on the best season of his career, having bagged 19 goals last year. The one major difference compared to last season is the loss of Jesus Medina, who completed a shock move to city rivals Spartak. He is not exactly irreplaceable though and there are enough decent options in the squad at the moment for Fedotov to feel confident and ready for the campaign ahead, even if it will be a tough battle at the top with some sides stacked with more talent.