Former
CSKA Moscow coach Leonid Slutsky revealed, in an exclusive interview with
Sky Sports' Gary Cotterill, his desire to become the first Russian to manage
in the Premier League - with the help of "the best agent in the world",
Roman Abramovich,
The Chelsea owner is mentoring his friend Slutsky, who is on an extended
visit to the UK as he looks to build a career in English football.
Abramovich has given Slutsky somewhere to live, access to Chelsea's Cobham
training ground, and tickets to matches all across the country.
"Mr Abramovich is my friend and he is helping me achieve my dream. It's a
challenge for him also," Slutsky told Sky Sports News HQ. "He is like my
agent, the best agent in the world.
"His new project in Russian football is helping me with my career in
England. He's giving me lots of advice about tactics and behaviour and
communication with chairmen and owners."
Slutsky has known Abramovich for 12 years. During that period he won three
Russian Premier League titles, the Russian Cup, the Super Cup , and took the
Russian national team to last summer's Euros, having won his first five
games in charge after taking over from Fabio Capello.
On Abramovich's famous media shyness, Slutsky says, "He is very friendly,
very intelligent, he makes a lot of jokes, but of course he's a private man.
I cannot speak a lot about him but he works hard developing football around
the world."
Slutsky's player of the season is Eden Hazard, and - just maybe - he has
good news for Chelsea fans...
When asked if Abramovich was worried by Real Madrid's wooing of his star
player Slutsky says, "I don't know, but I think, and I tell Chelsea
supporters, don't worry. Everything is OK, I hope."
He may not be worried about Hazard, but he is worried about Tottenham. He
wants Chelsea to be crowned champions, but thinks Spurs are the side in best
form.
"Tottenham are now showing the best football in the league," he said. "The
communication between (Harry) Kane, (Christian) Eriksen and (Dele) Alli is
like Messi, Neymar and Suarez. Of course Tottenham have a chance."
Slutsky has learnt English in just three months, since giving up his job at
CSKA Moscow after they lost to Spurs in the Champions League last year, but
he's realistic about his prospects in England. He knows he may have to start
in the Championship.
"One hundred per cent I guarantee success," he said. "I hope I will have a
chance. I have new ideas that may be interesting for English football."
As for next summer's World Cup in Russia, Slutsky is convinced all will go
well. "We will be very proud if you have a nice time. Please don't worry.
"If you want to watch the best tournament in the world, go to Russia. You
are all very welcome. I am sure everything will be OK."
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