Training underway: Astana begins preparations for the new season

Following successful medical check-ups, all players have been cleared to begin pre-season training.

For the 2025/2026 season, Ramūnas Čvirka will take over as Astana's head coach. He will be supported by Dainius Šalenga, a fellow Lithuanian specialist, and Anton Ponomarev. Vladimir Kucherenko will oversee the team’s strength and conditioning programme.



Returning to the squad this season are Alexander Zhigulin and Robert Pan, both of whom have previously played for Astana. The club has also renewed contracts with Ruslan Aitkali and Valery Simonov.

Anton Ponomarev, assistant coach of Astana, shared:

“The first day of training went smoothly — we kept things light to help the players ease back into the rhythm, working at a steady pace. The team’s looking good: they’re all professionals and clearly stayed in shape over the summer to be ready for the new season. We’re not at full strength just yet, but I’m confident everyone’s up for the challenges ahead. As for the training camp plan? Simple — work, work, and more work!”