In a recent discussion on the program "Third Time" aired on MATCH PREMIER, former Spartak Moscow midfielder Konstantin Shiltsov shared his heartfelt memories of his time with the team, particularly highlighting the impactful coaching styles of Domenico Tedesco and Guillermo Abascal.
Shiltsov, who joined Spartak in the summer of 2024 but left for Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk later that same year, reminisced about an intense motivational speech delivered by Tedesco before a match against Arsenal Tula. He recalled how the emotional delivery of the coach gave him goosebumps, stating, "In that moment, I felt like I was about to step onto the field myself, rather than just being a spectator listening to the team prepare for the game." The young midfielder described the experience as one that deeply influenced his perception of team spirit and motivation.
Shiltsov's reflections did not stop there; he also noted the exceptional talent of his former teammate Roma Zobnin. Describing Zobnin as a "versatile and intelligent player" who brings a remarkable work ethic to the pitch, Shiltsov emphasized the positive atmosphere that both Tedesco and Zobnin fostered during his time at the club. He stated, "Zobnin is an example of the current Spartak team, with his incredible running ability and intelligence on the pitch."
Transitioning to Abascal, who took over as head coach in April 2024 and was later replaced by Dejan Stankovic in June, Shiltsov characterized him as an "energetic and intelligent" individual whose speeches were marked by clarity and depth. Reflecting on his first impression of Abascal, he said, "His thoughts were very constructive and understandable. You can say that everything genius is simple when it comes to his communication style. He definitely left an impression on me."
When asked to compare the emotional intensity of Tedesco and Abascal, Shiltsov firmly stated, "Tedesco was more emotional." This emphasized the uniquely stirring approach that Tedesco had while motivating the team, contrasting it with Abascal's more measured yet equally effective communication.
Shiltsov's insights into his experiences shine a light on the varying coaching strategies within Spartak Moscow, providing fans and analysts alike a glimpse into the team culture from a player's perspective. For many, these reflections serve as both a nostalgic reminder of past glories and a hopeful sign of what is to come under new leadership.
With Spartak Moscow currently striving to maintain its competitive edge in Russian football, these accounts from players like Shiltsov provide a compelling backdrop to understand the dynamics that can drive a team's success or contribute to its challenges. As the club continues to evolve, the influence of coaching styles remains a pivotal area of interest for supporters and football enthusiasts.”
In conclusion, Shiltsov's reflections not only provide a personal touch to the team's history but also highlight the emotional undercurrents that coaches instill in their players. In a sport where motivation can be just as crucial as skill, hearing firsthand the impacts of Tedesco's and Abascal's coaching will resonate with fans of the beautiful game.
