Stanislav Cherchesov
No manager at the upcoming World Cup will face more pressure than Stanislav Cherchesov, the host nation’s skipper. A former goalkeeper for the USSR national team, Cherchesov was brought in following failed experiments with high-profile international names such as Guus Hiddink and Fabio Capello. After an underwhelming Russian performance in the 2016 Euros, his hire was largely met with approval and optimism in his home nation. He has been tasked with guiding his team to the semifinals, surely a large ask for a nation that hasn’t survived the group stage since 1986 as the former Soviet Union. Nevertheless, Cherchesov will bring his no nonsense style and defense-first mentality to his young and talented squad, before stadiums which will certainly covet strong showings. Win, lose, or draw, Cherchesov is sure to be under an incredibly fine microscope.
