Yuri Zhirkov is not ready to become a head coach

The legendary Russian midfielder says he needs more experience

Zhirkov retired from playing in 2021 and has since worked as an assistant coach at Zenit Saint Petersburg

Yuri Zhirkov has said that he is not yet ready to become a head coach, despite having been linked with the vacant position at FC Khimki.

The 39-year-old, who retired from playing in 2021, has been working as an assistant coach at Zenit Saint Petersburg since then.

However, he told Sport24 that he needs more experience before he can take on a head coaching role.

"I am not ready to be a head coach yet," Zhirkov said. "I need to gain more experience and knowledge."

"I am still learning the ropes as an assistant coach at Zenit, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a great team."

"I am confident that I will one day be ready to be a head coach, but I am in no rush."

Zhirkov made over 100 appearances for the Russian national team and played for clubs such as CSKA Moscow, Chelsea and Zenit Saint Petersburg.

He was part of the Russia squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup on home soil.