Spertsyan: Armenia national team lacks “sporting anger” and confidence

Armenia national team and Russian club Krasnodar midfielder Eduard Spertsyan spoke about the problems of the national side, his relationship with head coach Yegishe Melikyan, choosing to represent Armenia, and a funny conversation with Cristiano Ronaldo. The footballer shared this in a long interview with the publication Sport-Express.

Relationship with the coach

According to Spertsyan, he has no conflicts with Armenia national team head coach Yegishe Melikyan. The midfielder emphasized that their communication is based on mutual respect.

“We have a good relationship. Exactly the kind that should exist between a player and a coach — respectful,” he said.

Earlier there had been discussions around the coach following reports of a conflict with defender Nair Tiknizyan, but Spertsyan noted that he personally had not experienced any such issues.

Why the team struggles for results

Spertsyan believes that one of the reasons for the national team’s inconsistent results is psychological. Despite having strong individual players, the team sometimes loses to opponents because of the difference in level and a lack of confidence.

The footballer said Armenia’s national team lacks “sporting anger” and a true desire to fight until the end.

According to him, players need to step onto the pitch without fear of stronger and more high-profile opponents.

“Yes, opponents may be stronger and play in top leagues. But on the pitch everyone is equal. You have to fight and not be afraid to make mistakes — fear of mistakes is the worst thing in football,” he stressed.

Conversation with Cristiano Ronaldo

Spertsyan also recalled an episode from a match against Portugal when he managed to speak with Cristiano Ronaldo.

The midfielder jokingly told the Portuguese star that he would not score again against Armenia, even though Ronaldo had already scored a brace at that point.

After that the forward had a dangerous chance, but the ball passed just centimeters wide of the post.

“I told him: ‘See, I told you,’” Spertsyan said with a smile.

Dream of a major tournament

The footballer expressed confidence that Armenia’s national team can one day qualify for a major international tournament. He noted that the expansion of the World Cup and European Championship increases the chances for many teams.

Spertsyan admitted that he dreams of giving fans a real football celebration.

“When you put on the national team shirt, everything changes. You see people’s joy after victories — and that’s an incredible feeling,” he said.

Why he chose Armenia

The midfielder also said he has never regretted the decision to play for Armenia, although he had the opportunity to pursue his career with Russia.

According to the player, the final decision was made after he was not included in the list of players for Russia’s youth national team despite strong performances at club level.

“My family and I looked at the list and didn’t find my name there. That was the moment when the decision became final,” Spertsyan said.

He added that he always happily accepts a call-up to the national team and will do everything possible to help it succeed.