Spartak Moscow and PFC CSKA Moscow: Andrey Chervichenko speaks out
Andrey Chervichenko discusses relationship between FC Spartak Moscow and PFC CSKA Moscow
Former PFC CSKA Moscow general director Andrey Chervichenko has suggested that FC Spartak Moscow are given preferential treatment by the Russian Football Union (RFU) and referees, to the detriment of other clubs.
Chervichenko, who was in charge of CSKA from 2001 to 2010, made the claims in an interview with Sport Express, in which he also accused Spartak of being a "state club" that benefits from close ties to the Kremlin.
Spartak are owned by Lukoil, one of Russia's largest oil companies, and have a long history of success both domestically and in Europe. They have won the Russian Premier League 10 times since the fall of the Soviet Union, and have also lifted the Russian Cup four times.
Denies Allegations
Spartak has denied Chervichenko's allegations, with club spokesman Anton Fedorov saying that they are "unfounded and slanderous."
"Spartak is a private club that is not affiliated with any political party or government agency," Fedorov said. "We compete on a level playing field with all other clubs in the Russian Premier League."
The RFU has also denied Chervichenko's claims, saying that it treats all clubs fairly and impartially.
"The RFU is committed to fair play and equal treatment for all clubs," said RFU spokesman Igor Lebedev. "We have a strict code of ethics that all clubs must adhere to, and we will not hesitate to take action against any club that violates that code."
Fans Divided
Chervichenko's claims have divided opinion among Russian football fans. Some believe that he is simply trying to stir up trouble, while others believe that he may have a point.
"I think there is some truth to what Chervichenko is saying," said one fan. "Spartak does seem to get a lot of favorable treatment from the referees and the RFU."
"I don't think Spartak is a state club," said another fan. "But I do think they have a lot of political clout, and that gives them an advantage over other clubs."
Conclusion
It is difficult to say definitively whether or not Chervichenko's claims are true. However, his comments have certainly raised some interesting questions about the relationship between Spartak Moscow and the RFU.
It is important to note that Chervichenko's claims are just that - claims. He has not provided any evidence to support his allegations, and they should be treated with caution.
However, his comments have certainly sparked a debate about the fairness of Russian football. It will be interesting to see if the RFU takes any action to investigate Chervichenko's claims.
