The President of the Russian Football Union (RFU) Alexander Dyukov expressed dreams that the process of discussing the return of Russian teams to international tournaments could begin this year. The official emphasized that the aggressor country would not be reinstated in the competition immediately.

Dyukov said this in an interview with the RB Sport portal. The head of the Russian Federation noted that his organization is in constant contact with the leadership of the European Football Union (RFU), but today it is difficult to say that the Russians will be able to play in UEFA tournaments.

"So far, we only see dynamics in terms of referees, delegates and inspectors. Let's hope that someday UEFA will take the next step. It is unlikely that all football players can return at once. Hopefully, some teams will gradually return, either club or national teams. Let's hope that maybe something will happen this year," Dyukov said.

Earlier, UEFA's Alexander Čeferin said that Russian teams will not return to international football tournaments until the occupiers leave the territory of Ukraine.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL, the minimum losses of Russian football clubs related to the suspension from the European Cups in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons amounted to at least 84.5 million euros.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram Obozrevatel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!