Yuri Zhirkov reluctant to become manager

Former Russian international Yuri Zhirkov, who featured for Chelsea, Anzhi Makhachkala and Zenit Saint Petersburg during his career, has claimed that he does not see himself as a manager.

Zhirkov, 40, retired from professional football in 2021 and has since been working as an assistant coach with Zenit Saint Petersburg. Yet, despite his experience in the game, he is not keen on taking the reins as a manager.

Zhirkov prefers to remain behind the scenes

“I am doing my coaching badges, but I don’t see myself as a head coach,” Zhirkov told the Russian media. “I am more comfortable working behind the scenes, helping the head coach and the players.

Zhirkov made 105 appearances for Russia and was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2008. He also played in the 2012 and 2018 World Cups.

Zhirkov believes he is better suited to a backroom role

“I think I am better suited to a backroom role, where I can focus on player development and tactics,” Zhirkov added. “I am not interested in the limelight or the pressure that comes with being a head coach.”

Zhirkov’s decision to remain behind the scenes is a blow to Zenit Saint Petersburg, who were hoping to groom him as a potential successor to current coach Sergei Semak.

However, Zhirkov’s decision is understandable, as he has never expressed a desire to become a manager. He is content with his current role and is not interested in the added responsibility that comes with being a head coach.