The Nations League playoff games are approaching, and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers are just around the corner. It’s the perfect time to revisit the state of the Armenian national team.
Today’s article focuses on Valeri Tsarukyan and his prospects in Armenia's national squad.
Getting to Know the Player
Valeri Tsarukyan is a Russian-Armenian born in Novaya Derevnya (Stavropol Krai). He developed an interest in football at an early age. At just five years old, he started training at the Dynamo Stavropol academy. After a successful start in his hometown, Valeri spent some time at the Krasnodar academy before returning to Dynamo, where his professional career began.
He later played for well-known Russian clubs such as Fakel, Volgar, and Alania. His performances with Alania Vladikavkaz caught the attention of Russian Premier League scouts, and soon Tsarukyan joined Pari Nizhny Novgorod under the guidance of Viktor Goncharenko.
Although his statistics are not yet dazzling, Tsarukyan’s quality of play, flair, and several spectacular goals have not gone unnoticed. His career is far from peaking, but his potential is evident. Tsarukyan’s playing style is reminiscent of Lucas Zelarayán. Despite his short stature, he is quick and effective in the penalty area and possesses a strong shot.
This season, Valeri Tsarukyan has scored 4 goals and provided 1 assist in 19 matches across the Russian Premier League and the Russian Cup.
A Call-Up to the Armenian National Team
Traditionally, any footballer with Armenian roots who begins to deliver results automatically becomes a candidate for the Armenian national team. Some embrace the opportunity enthusiastically, while others approach it with caution. Here, we’ll evaluate Valeri Tsarukyan’s chances of making the squad and his willingness to represent Armenia.
Tsarukyan has commented on the possibility of being called up to the national team on multiple occasions:
On playing for the Armenian national team:
“They haven’t contacted me yet. I have Russian citizenship, but if the opportunity arises, I would be happy to represent Armenia. This country has a rich history, both in football and culture. I know the Armenian language and can speak it. I’ve watched some of their matches. For instance, I saw the recent game against Turkey, where the team lost 1–2.”
On choosing between Russia and Armenia:
“Would it be Russia or Armenia? Of course, I’m Armenian and want to represent my historical homeland. But Russia is also my country. We’ll see where the opportunity comes from. It would be an honor to receive a call-up from [Russia's coach] Karpin, especially if Russia returns to international competitions.”
Competition for His Position
The competition for Tsarukyan’s preferred position is stiff in both national teams. While Russia currently lacks international matches, the right winger spot is already crowded with talented players.
In the Armenian national team, the competition on the attacking flanks is also intense. Key players include Tigran Barseghyan, Vahan Bichakhchyan, Edgar Sevikyan, and Artur Serobyan. Supporting players include Jirayr Shagoyan and Narek Grigoryan, while Nair Tiknizyan and Lucas Zelarayán can also feature on the flanks.
Tigran Barseghyan is considered one of Armenia’s top footballers, with impressive stats at Slovan Bratislava: 24 goal contributions in 32 matches. Vahan Bichakhchyan, recently transferred to Legia Warsaw, is also in great form with 9 goal contributions in 23 games this season. Edgar Sevikyan and Artur Serobyan are also showing promise.
The Armenian Football Federation’s View
Armen Nikoghosyan, Vice President of the Armenian Football Federation, commented:
“We have 5-6 players in Valeri Tsarukyan’s position, but the final decision lies with the coaching staff. We are closely monitoring candidates and don’t want to call up players for just one game, as has happened in the past. This is also important in the context of military deferral.”
It’s worth noting that Tsarukyan is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a role he frequently occupies at the club level.
Until the Armenian national team appoints a new head coach, it’s difficult to draw firm conclusions about Tsarukyan’s chances. However, his skill level undoubtedly makes him a viable candidate. Any footballer who regularly competes in the Russian Premier League has the potential to succeed with Armenia.