In a recent exclusive interview, former Anzhi Makhachkala sporting director Hasanbi Bidzhiev reflected on his time with the Dagestan club, expressing a strong belief that the ambitious project had the potential to compete at the highest level of European football.
Bidzhiev described the Anzhi project as one he initially perceived as long-term, highlighting the remarkable achievements the team accomplished during its peak. He pointed to memorable victories over established European sides like Liverpool and Udinese as evidence of the squad's quality and competitive spirit.
The former director specifically recalled the club's impressive run in the 2012/2013 UEFA Europa League, where Anzhi reached the Round of 16 and competed on equal terms with Newcastle United. This performance, according to Bidzhiev, demonstrated the team's ability to hold its own against top-tier opposition.
One of the most striking anecdotes shared by Bidzhiev involved former manager Guus Hiddink. He recounted how Hiddink would jokingly ask him before European draws to avoid bringing Dutch clubs, as the team's dominant performances were causing embarrassment back in the Netherlands. This was exemplified by a stunning 5-0 away demolition of AZ Alkmaar.
Bidzhiev firmly stated that Anzhi made a substantial and lasting impression on the European football landscape during that period. While he stopped short of guaranteeing a Champions League triumph, he expressed confidence that the team would have certainly caused significant upsets and made their presence felt in the competition.
The former sporting director emphasized the exceptional strength of the collective, noting that even the quality of their training sessions was a sight to behold. This internal cohesion and talent, he suggested, were the foundations for their European exploits.
The interview paints a picture of a club that, for a brief but brilliant period, assembled a squad capable of challenging Europe's elite. Bidzhiev's recollections serve as a reminder of Anzhi's ambitious era and the 'what if' scenario surrounding their potential in the Champions League.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.