The final home match of the season for Zenit St. Petersburg will carry special emotional weight, as it will serve as the official farewell for legendary goalkeeper Mikhail Kerzhakov. The club announced that the 29th-round fixture of the Mir Russian Premier League against FC Sochi will be dedicated to the veteran shot-stopper's departure.
Kerzhakov, a product of the Zenit youth system (SShOR Zenit), has spent his entire professional career with the blue-white-sky blues. The 39-year-old is set to conclude his playing days with the club at the end of the 2025/2026 season, making this his final campaign in Zenit's colors.
The farewell ceremony is scheduled to take place immediately after the final whistle of the match. Kerzhakov will step onto the pitch at Gazprom Arena one last time to say goodbye to the supporters who have watched him guard Zenit's goal for years.
Throughout his tenure with the senior squad, Kerzhakov has amassed an impressive record. He has made 138 appearances across all competitions for Zenit, keeping a clean sheet in 54 of those matches. These statistics underscore his consistency and reliability between the posts.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Kerzhakov holds a unique place in the club's history books. He is recognized as the player with the most trophies in Zenit's history, a testament to his longevity and success during a golden era for the St. Petersburg club.
The announcement was made through the club's official Telegram channel, confirming that the match against Sochi will be a momentous occasion for both the player and the fanbase. It represents an opportunity for supporters to show their appreciation for a true one-club man.
For Zenit, this match is not just about securing points in the league standings; it is about honoring a player who has embodied the spirit and dedication of the club for decades. The atmosphere at Gazprom Arena is expected to be charged with emotion as fans gather to celebrate Kerzhakov's remarkable career.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.
