FC Ural failed to secure promotion to the Russian Premier League (RPL) after an unsuccessful season, leading to significant changes within the club. Coach Oleg Shatov and Vice-President Igor Smolnikov have departed following the team’s inability to return to the top tier of Russian football.
The team’s performance was analyzed, highlighting a stark contrast from its previous successes against top clubs like CSKA, Lokomotiv, and Dynamo. Now, they faced losses against teams such as Baltika, Torpedo, and Chernomorets, despite being one of the wealthiest clubs in the First League.
Several coaching changes occurred during the season. Viktor Goncharenko’s dismissal led to Evgeny Averyanov taking over, who implemented an interesting, attacking style of play and introduced young talents like Maxim Voronov and Egor Mosin. Averyanov also advocated for the acquisition of Martin Sekulich, who became the league’s top scorer. However, Averyanov was surprisingly dismissed before the winter break, a decision deemed a critical mistake by some observers.
Oleg Shatov’s arrival as coach initially brought a wave of victories, but the team’s form declined in the spring. A coaching council, including Sergei Tomarov and Miroslav Romashchenko, further complicated matters, with conflicting views among the coaches hindering the team’s progress. The team’s style shifted to less effective tactics, relying on crosses and a “hit-and-run” approach.
Nepotism within the club’s management was also criticized. The selection department is headed by the president’s son, and Oleg Shatov, despite lacking experience and the necessary coaching license, managed the training process. Igor Smolnikov’s appointment as vice-president also raised concerns due to his lack of managerial experience.
Statistical analysis revealed that Ural’s performance did not meet Premier League standards. Their defense conceded a significant number of goals, and their away game attacks were weak. Key players like Andrei Egorychev and Yuri Zheleznov saw reduced playing time, further impacting the team’s performance.
Controversial decisions regarding player departures also contributed to the team’s struggles. The removal of defender Emerson was questioned, while the retention of Italo due to a high buyout price was criticized. The departure of Leo Goglichidze and club legend Eric Bicfalvi negatively impacted the team’s atmosphere and performance.
Refereeing decisions also played a role in Ural’s failure. Penalties were frequently awarded against them, and VAR decisions often went against the team.
Despite the overall disappointment, there were some positive aspects. Maxim Voronov emerged as a promising young talent, and Martin Sekulich excelled as the league’s top scorer. Egor Mosin and Mingiyan Beveev also showed progress, and the fans continued to provide strong support.
The season’s outcome necessitates significant changes within FC Ural. The club’s management system needs to be reformed, and personnel changes are expected. The future of the club remains uncertain as it seeks to rebuild and return to the Premier League.