Аkinfeev: “Today is the birthday of a great man who played an exceptional role in my development”

СSKA goalkeeper Igor Аkinfeev congratulated head coach Valery Gazzaev on his 69th birthday.

“Today is the birthday of a great man who played an exceptional role in my development. I remember very well how, as a young boy, I listened to my father’s stories about Valery Georgievich and dreamed of one day playing for his team. And when I finally got my chance, I was very nervous, but he believed in me and gave me a chance to prove myself. I will always be grateful to him for that,” Akinfeev said.

Gazzaev coached CSKA from 2000 to 2003 and again from 2004 to 2008. During his time at the club, he won the Russian Premier League three times, the Russian Cup four times, and the Russian Super Cup three times. He also led CSKA to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League in 2005.

Akinfeev has been a member of CSKA’s first team since 2003 and has made over 500 appearances for the club. He has won the Russian Premier League five times, the Russian Cup six times, and the Russian Super Cup four times. He has also been capped over 100 times by the Russian national team.

Gazzaev is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in Russian history. He is known for his attacking style of play and his ability to develop young players.