Season Preview: Zenit Saint Petersburg. Unity
By: Ivan | March 8th, 2007
Location. Saint Petersburg usually called “cultural capital” opposite to nominee Moscow: that’s the key antagonism. Vlastimil Petrzela, Czech ex-coach of Zenit, once said “Zenit will never be a champion” that meant they wouldn’t be allowed to. But this season is good for breaking the Moscow conspiracy.
Team. Always playing in attacking mood and have greatest visual support in Russia (see photo). Last year team was taken over by gas company Gazprom. That brings them well-known Holland coach Dick Advocaat and lots of money to buy new players. Gazprom also funds Schalke-04 so Germans began to call them Schalski (you know why).
Star. No doubt that Andrey Arshavin is the best Russian player now. He’s got everything to be either forward or playmaker. He became a symbol and eternal hope of the team – luckily his abilities will meet good partnership this season.
Transfers. Sold their striker Alexander Kerzhakov to Sevilla. He dreamt about this transfer and already had time to score against Barcelona. Bought three great players: Russian national team striker Pavel Pogrebnyak, Argentian attacking midfielder Alejandro Dominguez and Ukraine centrehalf Anatoliy Tymoschuk. Gas at their best, y’know.
Rivals. All Moscow teams, but especially Spartak because both teams have big amount of fans. Spartak vs. Zenit perfectly represent Moscow vs. Saint Petersburg conflict.
Fact. The only dubious fact about Zenit is fan banner “There is no black in Zenit’ colors”. Actually team hasn’t African players but I hope it’s not a dogma.
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Tags: Alexander Kerzhakov, Andrey Arshavin, Russian Premier League, Season Preview, Team News, Zenit Saint PetersburgSubscribe
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Comments
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We have all seen Schlacke 04 (in our imagination at least) eating soljanka and drinking Moskovskaja when the deal was settled.
Well, if they don’t blow it like in 2001 Schalke has a fair chance at winning the league. Let’s call it a good omen for Zenit!
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United States
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Ivan - I am really digging getting to know a little more about Russia’s clubs and football culture. Keep it coming!!
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United States -
I haven’t forgiven them for beating Marseille in the UEFA Cup last year. Damn you, beautiful strike by Arshavin!
Posted from
Canada -
ivan have you been to southampton this summer
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United States
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