Forward of Lokomotiv, **Maxim Shalunov**, shared his thoughts on head coach **Igor Nikitin** moving to CSKA. Last season, the coach led Lokomotiv to victory in the Gagarin Cup.

**— How did you react to Igor Nikitin’s departure to CSKA?**
— That’s his decision. Everyone makes their own choices about how to advance in their career and where to work. I’ve worked with Igor Valeryevich for many years in various teams. Under his leadership, I won two Gagarin Cups and have gone through a significant journey. I can only express my gratitude for everything he has done for me, particularly during my time at Lokomotiv.

Now our team and Nikitin, along with his staff, are taking different paths. We need to focus on achieving success in the upcoming season, — quotes Shalunov from “Izvestia”.