Aleksandr Kovalenko could play for Armenia in September

Sochi midfielder Aleksandr Kovalenko will be available for the Armenia national team for the September matches of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League. The 22-year-old footballer is currently going through the procedure of changing his sporting citizenship.

Earlier, Kovalenko’s brother spoke about the player’s possible switch to the Armenia national team in an interview with RB Sport.

“That is true, negotiations are underway. Sasha is now preparing the documents in order to complete the process in time for the Nations League matches,” the player’s relative said.

Kovalenko has Armenian roots on both his father’s and mother’s sides. In addition, he is the grandson of former Yerevan Ararat footballer Aleksandr Kovalenko, who played for the legendary 1973 team.

The midfielder had previously received an invitation from the Armenia national team, but at that time he chose Russia. He played one friendly match for the Russian national team against Kyrgyzstan in 2022. After that, Kovalenko did not receive another call-up from Russia and has now accepted Armenia’s invitation.

For Yeghishe Melikyan’s team, Kovalenko’s arrival could be an important reinforcement. The Armenia head coach has repeatedly spoken about the need to find a player capable of replacing or covering for Ugochukwu Iwu in central midfield in case of injuries. Kovalenko fits that profile: he plays in central midfield, is comfortable on the ball and can cover several roles in the middle of the pitch.

At the same time, the reaction to his potential arrival in the national team may be mixed because of his previous refusals to play for Armenia. Nevertheless, from a footballing point of view, Kovalenko remains a young, promising and high-quality option to strengthen the national team.

This season, the midfielder has been getting regular playing time at Sochi. He has made 26 appearances in all competitions. Although the club is currently bottom of the Russian Premier League and risks relegation to the First League, Kovalenko himself has had a good season. His contract with Sochi runs until 2029.