Zenit has not yet defined its starting goalkeeper for 2026/27, he admits
According to Championat.
Why this matters
The uncertainty over who will be Zenit's starting goalkeeper is crucial, as the position is fundamental to the team's defensive stability. With the ambition of maintaining hegemony in the Russian League, the choice of 'number one' could directly influence the club's performance next season. Furthermore, the possible departure of Evgeny Latyshonok adds an extra layer of complexity to the situation.
Main conclusions
- Zenit has not yet defined its starting goalkeeper for 2026/27, he admits.
- William de Oliveira confirmed that Zenit has not yet decided who will be the starting goalkeeper in 2026/27.
- В «Зените» заявили, что не определились с первым номером на сезон-2026/2027 - Чемпионат.
Zenit Saint Petersburg has not yet defined who will be its starting goalkeeper for the 2026/27 season. The confirmation was given by William de Oliveira, coach of the Russian emblem, who explained that the choice of “number one” remains open at this stage.
"Who will be first? Do you think I'm going to say it now? We haven't decided yet", said the coach, in statements reproduced by the Russian agency TASS. The uncertainty keeps internal competition alive between the three guardians currently in the defending champion's squad: Evguêni Latyshonok, Denis Adamov and Bogdan Moskvichev.
Zenit's goal has been one of the most sensitive dossiers in preparation for the new season, not only because of the club's ambition to maintain domestic hegemony, but also because of the rumors surrounding Latyshonok's future. In recent weeks, the Russian press has reported that the goalkeeper could leave Saint Petersburg, a scenario that, if realized, would require an immediate redefinition of the hierarchy of options for the position.
For now, William de Oliveira emphasizes that the decision will only be made at the right time, after the solutions have been observed throughout training and the first competitive tests. The choice of starter in goal is, in fact, a key point for Zenit's defensive stability, which once again faces next season as a big favorite for the title in Russia.
It is worth remembering that the s-i-n-e-b-l-a-n-c-o-s are the current Russian champions and have enjoyed prolonged dominance in the country: in the last eight seasons, they have won the championship on seven occasions. In 2025/26, Krasnodar finished second in the table and Lokomotiv Moscow finished the podium, in a context that suggests a new intense fight for the top places in 2026/27.
With Latyshonok, Adamov and Moskvichev competing for goal, Zenit seeks to balance experience, sporting form and game routines before establishing the final hierarchy. Healthy competition between the three could benefit the Saint Petersburg team, which intends to enter the new season strong and maintain the winning streak that has distinguished it in Russian football.
Until further notice from the club, the decision on who will be Zenit's “number one” will remain open, and it is expected that the next training sessions and preparatory games will offer clearer clues about the goal for 2026/27.
What happens next
William de Oliveira must carefully observe the performance of the goalkeepers during training and the first competitive tests before making a decision. The choice of starter could take place as the pre-season progresses, and Zenit will have to be prepared to adjust their strategy if Latyshonok decides to leave the club. The internal competition between Adamov and Moskvichev also promises to be intense.
Frequently asked questions
Has Zenit already defined the starting goalkeeper for the 2026/27 season?
No, Zenit has not yet defined who their starting goalkeeper will be for the 2026/27 season.
Who confirmed the uncertainty regarding Zenit's starting goalkeeper?
Confirmation was given by William de Oliveira, Zenit coach.
Why is choosing the starting goalkeeper important now?
The choice of the starting goalkeeper is important for Zenit's defensive stability and for the team's preparation for the new season.
Who are the goalkeepers in contention for the starting job at Zenit?
The goalkeepers in contention are Evgeni Latyshonok, Denis Adamov and Bogdan Moskvichev.
What could change in Zenit's goalkeeping hierarchy?
If Evguêni Latyshonok leaves Zenit, it would force an immediate redefinition of the hierarchy of options for the position.