Arshavin considers the participation of Russian clubs in the next Champions League season unlikely

Zenit Deputy Director General for Sports Development Andrei Arshavin in conversation withRBC Sports “stated that the participation of Russian clubs in the upcoming season Champions League is unlikely.

– Believe that “Zenith” is there a chance to play the Champions League next season after filing a class action appeal against UEFA’s decision at CAS?

“To be honest, the chances are slim. Even if a decision is made there that our clubs will miraculously participate, I have no idea how we will play. I think that in this situation, all the teams will show their refusal to play with us in any way possible. For example, some clubs may declare that they will not come to Saint Petersburg, and UEFA will have to take action. I don’t believe that we will play next season in the Champions League, – said Arshavin.

Arshavin also told how he got defender Yaroslav Rakitsky out of the club.

– Did you communicate with Yaroslav Rakitsky before or after his departure from Zenit? What do you think of his decision to leave the club?

– We talked to him. Naturally, he was upset. We have to accept his decision. With Yaroslav there was a normal parting. They had a conversation with Alexander Ivanovich Medvedev, after which the decision was made to leave. Work situation.

At the beginning of May, the executive committee of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) took a number of decisions on the participation of Russian clubs and teams in competitions under the auspices of the organization. Russia will not be represented in European competition next season, the team will not play in the Nations League. On May 13, Zenit, Dynamo, CSKA and Sochi filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against UEFA’s decision.

RBC Sports