A new era at CSKA: What awaits Fayzullaev and the Celestini phenomenon

A new chapter is beginning at CSKA. After parting ways with Serbian specialist Marko Nikolic, the army team’s new head coach is most likely to be Swiss Fabio Celestini. This change undoubtedly opens up new opportunities and prospects for the team, especially for the young Uzbek talent Abbosbek Fayzullaev.

Nikolic era results

Under Marko Nikolic, Abbosbek Fayzullaev played 39 matches in the RPL and Russian Cup this season, scoring 3 goals and providing 8 assists. CSKA won bronze medals in the Russian championship and lifted the national cup. This was undoubtedly an important stage in Fayzullaev’s emergence on the big stage.

Celestini: coach of tradition and reform

The main candidate for the vacancy after Nikolic is 49-year-old Fabio Celestini. His last club was Switzerland’s “Basel.” Interestingly, in October 2023, Basel was at the bottom of the standings, but Celestini, having taken the team as a substitute, led them to the championship and the Cup in a short time. As a coach, he also worked at “Sion,” “Luzern,” “Lausanne,” “Lugano,” and “Terracina.”

As a player, Celestini played over 100 matches in France and Spain for clubs such as “Marseille,” “Troyes,” “Getafe,” and “Levante.”

Coach’s style and trust in youth

Fabio Celestini is known as a specialist who has perfected the 4-2-3-1 tactic. Under his guidance, “Basel” scored 91 goals in 38 games, and in some matches netted as many as 5 per game. When necessary, he showed tactical flexibility, sometimes playing with three central defenders.

Celestini’s trust in young players is also especially noted. Last season, most of Basel’s players with the most game time were between 21 and 23 years old. For creative, fast, and dribbling players like Abbosbek Fayzullaev, these are the best conditions.

A new challenge and new roles for Fayzullaev

According to analysts, Fayzullaev can prove himself in Celestini’s system as a winger or “number ten.” The new coach is known for fully trusting youth and being able to unlock their talent. Fayzullaev is highly likely to become one of the main attacking figures in the team.

Conclusion

A new stage is starting at CSKA. The Celestini phenomenon and his focus on youth give hope even to Uzbek fans. The prospects of Abbosbek Fayzullaev in the team and his performance under the new coach remain one of the main intrigues of the new season. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!