Vasili Berezutski: Russian defender, international stalwart and coach

Club career

Berezutski started his professional career in 1999 as a teenager with Torpedo Moscow. He moved to CSKA Moscow early in the 2000s and spent the bulk of his club career there, becoming a fixture in the back line for domestic and continental competition. His club résumé can be summarized as:

• Torpedo Moscow — professional debut and early development
• CSKA Moscow — long-term first‑team defender and senior squad member

International career

On the international stage Berezutski was a dependable presence for Russia over many years. He earned more than 100 caps for the national side, reaching the notable milestone of his 100th appearance on 6 September 2016 in the friendly against Ghana. He represented Russia in major tournaments and was valued for consistency and experience at the heart of the defence.

Style, partnerships and leadership

Berezutski combined physical strength, aerial ability and positional awareness to form the core of a typically compact central defence. He frequently played alongside his twin brother, Aleksei Berezutski, forming a long‑standing defensive partnership at club and international level. The brothers were often praised for their understanding on the pitch and for providing leadership in senior squads.

Coaching and later roles

Following retirement from playing, Berezutski transitioned into coaching and backroom work. He has served as an assistant coach and technical staff member, bringing his on‑field experience into player development and match preparation at CSKA Moscow and in roles connected to national team structures. His practical knowledge of top‑level competition informs his approach as a tutor for defenders and younger professionals.

Honours and notable facts

During his career Berezutski collected multiple domestic honours with CSKA Moscow and was part of squads that achieved success in European competition. Notable points include:

• Century of international appearances for the national team, with the 100th cap earned against Ghana.
• Long‑term club success at CSKA Moscow, contributing to league titles and cup victories.
• Regular defensive partnership with his twin brother, a feature that attracted attention throughout his career.

For further reading on match records, coaching appointments and seasonal statistics consult club and national team archives or dedicated player databases via the linked profiles and resources above.