Aleksandr Selikhov: A Career Journey Through Russian Football
The path of a professional goalkeeper is often defined by patience, resilience, and the ability to seize a moment when the spotlight suddenly shifts. For Aleksandr Selikhov, his trajectory through the tiers of Russian football exemplifies this journey, moving from the lower divisions to the heights of the Russian Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
Early Beginnings at FC Oryol
Selikhov's professional journey began in the Russian Second Division, the third tier of the national football league system. He made his competitive debut for Rusichi Oryol on May 29, 2012, in a match against FC Kaluga, marking the start of his ascent in professional football.
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Rise Through Amkar Perm
His potential caught the attention of Amkar Perm, a club competing in the Russian Football Premier League (RFPL). After an initial loan spell, Selikhov signed a two-year contract with the club in July 2014.
His breakthrough into the top flight came on August 28, 2015. Due to injuries sustained by the club's primary goalkeeping options, Roman Gerus and Dmitri Khomich, Selikhov was called upon to make his RFPL debut in a match against FC Rostov.
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The Spartak Moscow Era
On November 22, 2016, Selikhov signed with one of Russia's most prestigious clubs, Spartak Moscow, officially joining the squad on December 6, 2016. His opportunity to start arrived in September 2017 following an injury to Artem Rebrov during a 1-1 UEFA Champions League draw against Liverpool. Selikhov's subsequent performances earned him the role of first-choice goalkeeper for the remainder of that season.
However, his momentum was interrupted in May 2018 when an injury forced him out of the starting lineup. This setback notably cost him a place in the Russia national team's final squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Upon his return, he initially served as the second choice behind Aleksandr Maksimenko, occasionally appearing for the reserve team.
Selikhov reclaimed his starting position in October 2021 after a period of inconsistent form from Maksimenko. One of his most pivotal moments occurred on December 9, 2021, when he saved a stoppage-time penalty against Legia Warsaw. This save secured a 1-0 victory, keeping Spartak at the top of their Europa League group and avoiding elimination.
Selikhov extended his commitment to Spartak on October 14, 2022, signing a contract through the 2024–25 season, which included a conditional one-year extension. He shared the starting duties with Maksimenko until reaching a significant milestone on October 22, 2024, when he played his 100th match for the club in a 1-0 Cup victory over Dynamo Makhachkala.
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New Chapter with Ural Yekaterinburg
After nearly nine years associated with the club, Selikhov left Spartak Moscow by mutual consent on January 22, 2025. Shortly thereafter, on February 19, 2025, he signed with Ural Yekaterinburg, beginning a new chapter in his professional career.
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Key Facts
- Professional Debut: May 29, 2012, for Rusichi Oryol.
- Top Flight Debut: August 28, 2015, for Amkar Perm against FC Rostov.
- Spartak Milestone: Completed 100 appearances for Spartak Moscow on October 22, 2024.
- Critical Save: Saved a late penalty against Legia Warsaw in December 2021 to secure Europa League progression.
- Current Club: Joined Ural Yekaterinburg on February 19, 2025.
Career Summary
| Club | Period | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| Rusichi Oryol | 2012 | Professional debut in Russian Second Division |
| Amkar Perm | 2014–2016 | Russian Premier League debut (2015) |
| Spartak Moscow | 2016–2025 | 100 appearances; Champions League and Europa League play |
| Ural Yekaterinburg | 2025–Present | Signed February 19, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Aleksandr Selikhov make his professional debut?
He made his professional debut on May 29, 2012, playing for Rusichi Oryol against FC Kaluga in the Russian Second Division.
Why did Selikhov miss the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
An injury sustained in May 2018 forced him out of the starting lineup and resulted in his exclusion from the Russia national team's final squad for the tournament.
What was Selikhov's most significant moment at Spartak Moscow?
One of his most critical contributions was saving a stoppage-time penalty against Legia Warsaw on December 9, 2021, which ensured Spartak remained top of their Europa League group.
How many matches did Selikhov play for Spartak Moscow?
Selikhov reached the milestone of 100 matches for Spartak Moscow on October 22, 2024, during a 1-0 Cup win against Dynamo Makhachkala.
Which club does Aleksandr Selikhov currently play for?
As of February 19, 2025, Aleksandr Selikhov is signed with Ural Yekaterinburg.