Aleksandr Gennadyevich Anyukov made his senior Russian Premier League debut on 14 October 2000 against Zenit Saint Petersburg. Over the following two decades, the right-back developed a career defined by extensive domestic success and consistent representation of the Russian national squad in major international tournaments, eventually transitioning from the field to a role on the coaching staff.
Early Career in Samara
Born in 1982 in Samara, Anyukov began attending football school at age six. He joined the reserve team of Krylia Sovetov Samara in 2000, competing in the Second Division. Aleksandr Tarkhanov identified his potential, facilitating his promotion to the first team. He remained with Krylia Sovetov until mid-2005, a period that coincided with his emergence as an international-level talent.
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Anyukov transferred to Zenit Saint Petersburg in July 2005. During his long tenure at the club, he contributed to five Russian Premier League titles in 2007, 2010, 2011–12, 2014–15, and 2018–19. His European experience included reaching the UEFA Cup quarterfinals in 2005–06 and securing the UEFA Cup title in 2007–08, followed by a victory in the 2008 UEFA Super Cup.
International Participation
His senior international debut occurred in May 2004 against Austria. Anyukov participated in Euro 2004 and scored his first international goal against Germany in 2005. He was part of the squad that earned bronze at the 2008 UEFA European Championship and was included in the finalized roster for Euro 2012.
Transition to Coaching
On 25 June 2019, Zenit announced Anyukov would join the club's coaching staff. Briefly interrupting his retirement, he played for Krylia Sovetov Samara on loan during the 2019–20 season. Following the expiration of his contract on 31 May 2020, he returned to Zenit to continue his professional focus as a coach.
Fast facts
- Born: 1982, Samara
- Citizenship: Russia
- Primary Position: Right-back
- International Appearances: Over 70
- Honours: Honoured Master of Sports of Russia
- Major Club Title: UEFA Cup 2007–08
Questions readers ask
How many times did Aleksandr Anyukov win the Russian Premier League?
He won the Russian Premier League five times with Zenit Saint Petersburg.
Is Aleksandr Anyukov still an active player?
No, he retired from professional play to serve as an assistant coach with FC Zenit Saint Petersburg.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
