Georgi Shchennikov

Early Life

Georgi Mikhaylovich Shchennikov, born in Russia, is a former professional footballer known for his role as a left defensive midfielder or left-back. He is the son of Mikhail Shchennikov, an Olympic medalist race walker, which hints at a family legacy of athleticism.

Club Career

Shchennikov began his professional career with PFC CSKA Moscow, making his debut in a Russian Cup match against FC Torpedo Vladimir on August 6, 2008. He quickly made an impact, appearing as a substitute in a UEFA Cup match against Deportivo La Coruña later that year, marking his entry into European competition before playing in any domestic league games. Over the years, he became a key player for CSKA, scoring his first goal for the club in 2013 during an extra-time victory against Terek Grozny. Notably, he scored his first Champions League goal on November 22, 2017, in a match against Benfica and netted a goal in a historic 3-0 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on December 12, 2018. After 15 seasons with CSKA, Shchennikov played his farewell match on June 3, 2023, as the team secured second place in the Russian Premier League.

International Career

On the international stage, Shchennikov represented the Russia national under-21 team from 2009 to 2013, participating in the 2011 European Under-21 Championship qualification. He made his senior debut for the national team on August 15, 2012, in a friendly against Ivory Coast and was later included in Russia's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Legacy

Throughout his career, Shchennikov earned several accolades, including being named the Russian Premier League Best Young Player in 2009 and featuring in the list of the 33 best football players in the Russian championship multiple times. His contributions to CSKA Moscow helped the club secure two Russian Premier League titles, four Russian Cups, and three Russian Super Cups, solidifying his legacy in Russian football.