Zenit St. Petersburg has addressed the recent absence of Brazilian midfielder Wendel from the club's pre-season preparations. The player, who joined the Russian champions from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, did not report for duty at the start of the team's summer training camp in 2025.
The situation prompted a direct response from the club's leadership. In an interview featured in the documentary series "Zenit Forever," Alexander Medvedev, an advisor to the chairman of the board, provided clarity on the matter. He confirmed that Wendel's failure to appear for the scheduled training sessions was not overlooked by the organization.
Medvedev explained that while the club could not resort to archaic disciplinary measures, the issue was handled firmly. He stated that Wendel was spoken to about the seriousness of his actions and was subsequently penalized. The punishment, as Medvedev disclosed, was financial in nature, involving a significant monetary fine.
The player eventually arrived at the club's location just a few days before the commencement of the new season in the Mir Russian Premier League. His late arrival meant he missed a crucial period of team building and tactical preparation with his teammates.
Wendel has been a part of the Zenit squad since his transfer from the Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon. Before his move to Europe, the midfielder developed his skills at the Brazilian club Fluminense. His experience has been valuable to the team, making his absence from the pre-season all the more notable.
The incident highlights the strict internal discipline maintained at the top Russian club. While the specific reasons for Wendel's delay were not detailed in the advisor's comments, the club's response underscores the importance of commitment and professionalism expected from all players, regardless of their status within the squad.
With the new Mir Russian Premier League season now underway, the focus will shift to Wendel's performance on the pitch and his reintegration into the team's dynamics following this disciplinary episode.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.