From Russia with love

Over the past few years, mostly because the hefty investments, Russian league has grew to become one of the arguably best leagues in Eastern Europe, but it also became a tempting destination for many players. Thorough and dedicated youth program resulted in a huge quality growth, foreigners brought in a dose of professionalism which helped many domestic players to develop and become an attractive target for many European top sides. Russian most famous brand is definitely Arshavin, but there are also several other players who, after their excellent roles in EURO 2008 and in Russian youth selections, are set to follow his footprints. Soccerpie is bringing you the list of the best and most talented Russian players who caught the eye of several major European outfits.

Yuri Zhirkov:

There is a belief in the West that Arshavin is the best there is in Russian football, but the better connoisseurs of Russian football claim that exactly Zhirkov is the first star in Hiddink’s squad. excellent footballer covers the entire left area, he is a mature player who should be expected to leave CSKA this summer after five years spent in the club. Chelsea are the most probable destination, but Juventus want a proper successor for Pavel Nedved and it could easily happen that exactly Zhirkov or “Russian Ronaldinho” as they call him over there sign for the Italian giants.

Alan Dzagoev:

Russian best youngster, a boy who was first capped being only 18 is certainly the future of the Russian football. He was called up for the game against Germany when he broke CSKA keeper Akinfeev’s record becoming the youngest debutant in the history. Chelsea have already sent an offer which was rejected, but if Abramovich be persistent, Dzagoev will cross the Stamford Bridge.

Pavel Pogrebnyak:

We didn’t see this player in action at EURO 2008 since he had previously picked up an injury in a friendly against Serbia. He was a crucial player in his club’s UEFA Cup triumph and was UEFA Cup top scorer alongside Luca Toni. He was expected to pack his bags this winter to the Premiership, but Arshavin was first in line for the transfer. That is why the summer is bringing the new chance for this boy.

Dmitri Torbinski:

Fast attacking midfielder has quickly become nation’s favourite after the goal he scored against the Netherlands at EURO 2008. Locomotiv Moscow’s skipper has already played 16 games for his national team scoring two goals in the process. He is another player who was discarded by Spartak and who had to prove his worth playing for the worst city rival. Torbinsky has already had several hefty offers but Locomotiv have set €20 million as the asking price.

Aleksandr Prudnikov:

Spartak Moscow’s young striker was a key man in Russia’s U17 European championship triumph. Popular “Sasha” scored a goal on his debut game for Spartak and we expect that next season will definitely be the year of his full affirmation. Another one in line for the Premiership…

Igor Denisov:

Although he had a conflict with Hiddink, Denisov is undoubtedly one of the most talented Russians. He was brilliant in Zenit’s UEFA Cup quest last year. He has been on scouts’ shortlist for a long time since he played a great deal of games with Russia U21 and even captained the brilliant generation.

Dmitri Kombarov:

Dmitri has a fantastic season with Dinamo behind him. Policemen ended the season third and will play Champions League Qualifications. Interestingly enough, his twin brother Kiril is also Dinamo player. Both brother had been formerly discarded from Spartak as untalented players.

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