An old friend of Russian football came to Moscow for the World Championship among artists: he was announced as a musician for the Argentina national team. In an interview with SE Hector Bracamonte told how he lives now, and remembered the years when he played in the Premier League.

He played in Russia for nine years - from 2003 to 2012. Then there was a return home and almost immediately - a serious injury. Three years ago Bracamonte retired. During this time, Pushkin, as he was called in "Moscow", has become a true all-rounder: he coaches the reserve team "Boca Juniors", runs a bar, where he plays guitar as part of his band, broadcasts about music on radio and television, and produces sportswear.

Bracamonte 38, but like a mischievous curly-haired boy, he is interested in everything around him. Everything touches him. In the few hours that we spent next to the Argentinean, we managed to fully convince ourselves of this...

Initially, there was no plan for a big conversation. I just wanted to know how one of the brightest foreign players in the history of the Russian Championship was doing. And ask him to wish him something good Leonid Slutsky on the eve of the Euro, because they worked together at Moscow, and both will forever remain symbols of an ambitious, but, unfortunately, club that has not survived to this day.

We were going to talk right after the first match Argentina national team within the framework of the International Football and Music Festival "Art Football". But Bracamonte took the result too seriously. The whole meeting was against Kazakhstan he was sadly waiting for at least one sensible pass or cross in the attack. And the Kazakhs, who turned out to be noticeably younger and fitter than the gray-haired and pot-bellied South Americans, scored one goal after another. The final 0:7 infuriated Bracamonte. “Interview? I don’t know, I don’t know... I’m tired, later, tomorrow,” the disgruntled forward said on the way to the locker room. But after the shower it thawed. “Come to the hotel. We’ll have time to talk before the Champions League final (it was May 28).

Did not have time. Bracamonte was distracted by something and went down to the foyer noticeably later than he had promised. Then his teammates invited him to dinner. And then he disappeared and stopped answering calls. The match between Real Madrid and Atlético had already begun, the break was approaching... It seemed that the task had failed. But then a voice message came: “Come to the restaurant on the second floor, I’m watching football with my guys.”

Sorry, I got carried away,” Bracamonte threw up his hands guiltily and smiled childishly. Tousled hair and a funny accent (and we communicated in Russian) complemented the image - it was impossible to be offended by such an interlocutor.

- Are you very worried about the Argentinean Simeone?

No, I don't like his behavior! A coach shouldn't play, he should coach. And this one is standing on the line and shouting something. Here I am a player, on the field. What are you yelling at me? I still can't hear!

- Now you train yourself.

Yes, as soon as I finished football, I immediately went into coaching. Work in "Boke Juniors". With the second team. The system at the club is complex. There is a chief who gives instructions. And I’m the player, I explain everything in the field.

- Like?

Yes. Especially with young guys. I'm a good teacher, I think.

- How long have you been at Boca?

Two and a half years. In Europe I can already get a Pro license. But I'm in no hurry yet.

- They’re not calling you to the first team?

But I don’t want to. It's too early for me.

AT SPARTAK THEY THOUGHT THE CAVENAGHI WERE MESSI

- You don’t like Simeone’s manners. Do you behave during matches like Leonid Slutsky, rocking in a chair?

No. When I'm nervous, I joke all the time.

- For example?

A football player makes mistakes, and I tell the guys on the bench: “What a great player he is playing! Very good! What a great guy!”

- Do you swear at your players in Russian?

When we lost to Kazakhstan today, I immediately remembered all the bad words! ( laughs)

- In Russia, the first thing you learned was swearing?

I don't understand. What does my mother have to do with this?

Ah-ah-ah. Well, of course! Is it really possible to publish something like this in a newspaper?

Sometimes local players make fun of foreign players and mistranslate their words. Has this happened to you?

I myself was a translator for Argentine players. During classes, the coach says: “When the whistle blows, we all run forward.” And I translate to the guys: “When the whistle blows, we start jumping, okay?” The whistle blows, everyone runs, and these fools jump.

We have a popular video where Cavenaghi and Dominguez in the studio of an Argentine TV channel recall Russian swear words at the request of the presenter.

And I was on that program! Played the guitar.

- Why didn’t it work out for Cavenaghi at Spartak?

- “Spartak” is an unusual team. Like Boca Juniors in Argentina. The fans of “Moscow” and “Terek” were calm, but there was constant noise around “Spartak”. Many good football players could not play there. And they left and shone again. Cavenaghi did not play badly at Spartak, he scored a lot of goals. He just got a big salary and you thought Fernando was Messi. Much more was expected of him than he could give.

- But he really was very talented.

In Argentina he was a leading player, but in Spartak he was integrated into the scheme and was deprived of his freedom. River Plate scored three goals in each match, two were scored by Fernando. There is a different kind of football in Russia, which is inconvenient for him. In France, Cavenaghi began to play well again, in Argentina and Mexico - also very well. And he didn’t get lost in Cyprus. It's a pity, he suffered a serious knee injury and terminated his contract with the club.

- Does Cavenaghi intend to retire?

We are constantly in touch. He had an operation in Spain. He will think whether he can continue playing.

- You are from Boca, Cavenaghi from River Plate. Doesn't this interfere with friendship?

Come on! I have a lot of friends from River. Especially among those who also played in Russia: Maxi Lopez, Montenegro. A couple of days ago we were sitting in a restaurant with Osmar Ferreira.

GOOD LUCK TO SLUTSKY AT EURO, I WILL SUBMIT HIM TO CSKA

- You speak Russian quite well. How do you manage not to forget your language?

Fine?! Can't you hear how bad I speak? I didn’t study grammar, I confuse the tenses. Yesterday I arrived and thought at the airport: “***, I forgot everything!” But I started talking to the girl at passport control, and everything seemed fine. You just have to think a little longer before saying the word.

- Which Russian friends do you keep in touch with?

Yes, with many people! I called Yuri Belous. I communicate via WhatsApp or Facebook with Jop, Goravski, Cizek, Jakubko, Pletikosa, Dzhyaukstas, Bayramyan. I won't list them all.

- What about Slutsky?

When he took over the leadership of the national team, I congratulated him. I know that he again became the champion of Russia.

- Do you remember how the young coach was received at Moscow?

He became a champion with Moscow's double, but there were those who did not believe in him. They asked questions: “Who came, what did he achieve as a football player?” People think that only a former player can become a coach or referee. In fact, everything is different. When Leonid started working with the main team, I immediately realized that he was a strong coach. He has a good character. He immediately asked: “Braca, what problems do you have? What can you do on the field?” When a coach wants to help you, you want to help him.

- Did you hear how your former coach ended his career as a goalkeeper?

Broke my knee.

- Under what circumstances?

No. What happened?

- I climbed a tree for a cat and fell.

Argentine expression. Look in the dictionary to see how it is translated. Also not for printing.

Several years ago you prophesied that Slutsky would lead the Russian national team. And they added that after him, you yourself will take the helm of the team.

A little different. I said that when Leonid becomes the coach of the national team, I will go to work at CSKA. But he left me no chance, he took both posts! ( laughs).

After the European Championship, Slutsky will have to make a choice - the national team or the club. The road to CSKA may be open.

Call me right away, I'm ready.

- We agree to a fee of 10 percent of your first salary.

At least 20 ( laughs). I want to coach in Russia, this is my dream. But for now I work in the best place in the world - at Boca Juniors. I’ll have a couple more years to gain experience, and then we’ll see.

May 22, 2007. Leonid SLUTSKY (left) and Hector BRACAMONTE at a training session of FC Moscow. Photo by Alexey IVANOV, "SE"

WE LIVE WITH BARRENTOS IN THE SAME ENTRANCE

- We read that you don’t want to live in Buenos Aires, you’d be better off in your hometown.

Yes, in Rio Cuarto.

- They even wanted to become mayor there.

It was so. I want to return home, but my family likes the capital. My wife and two daughters are against me alone. Where are you going to go?

- How old are your daughters?

13 and 9. The youngest Isabella is a big Boca Juniors fan and knows everything about the team. And the eldest likes volleyball.

- You flew to Moscow as a musician.

I have my own bar in Argentina and I often play there. I have a group. Music and guitar are my life. Dad, brother, cousin and even aunt - we are all musicians.

- How did you manage to become a football player?

Because in Argentina everyone plays football and wants to become famous. But sports don't stop you from playing the guitar.

Russian pianist Denis Matsuev, after the defeat of his beloved Spartak, sits down at the piano and begins to play with aggression in order to throw out the negativity.

The best way! I also take up the electric guitar after losses, it helps a lot. “When you feel sad, remember that many people have it much worse than you.” I often hum these words.

- Which football players in Russia did you sing together with?

IN "Rostov" With Oscar Ahumada. And in "Moscow" with no one. In "Moscow" I only drank with someone! ( laughs).

It's true that Mariusz Jop liked listening to your songs?

I don’t know whether he loved me or not, but we lived in the same room, and he had nowhere to go. I immediately told him: “My friend, I’m sorry, but I’ll play the guitar.”

- And Barrientos played the drums.

Right. I bought it in Spain. All the neighbors went crazy.

“He has developed a reputation here as a real psycho.”

He's only like that on the field. But in life he is very pleasant and calm.

- Where is he now?

I live on floor 5a, and he lives on 5b. We are neighbours. Pablo plays for San Lorenzo and reached the final of the Argentine championship this season.

BILAN'S DISC THROWN OUT THE WINDOW

- Do you perform Russian songs in your bar? Vladimir Vysotsky, for example.

Haven't heard of him. Sing a couple of songs.

- Let's better turn on the recording on YouTube.

No no. I want to hear from you, my friends! Live! I won't laugh, I promise.

- Maybe better...

Come on, come on, sing!

- But somehow the horses I came across were picky...

Ha! Yes, I sang this song! I just didn't know who the author was. Representatives of the Russian embassy often come to my bar and ask to play it. Horses... Yes, exactly!

- What is your favorite Russian song?

Well, it's simple! "Okay, everything will be fine, everything will be fine, I know it!" Serduchka is the best! Even though it's a man ( laughs).

- What else?

- "Uma Thurman". I bought CDs from “Chaifa” and “Time Machines” and went to their concert. I liked some of TaTu's songs. Who haven't you named yet?

- Dima Bilan?

No, thanks ( laughs). Stas Ivanov...

- Maybe Stas Mikhailov?

No, Ivanov. The one who is Moldovan played for Moscow. I remember we were driving his car, I was looking through the music, I saw Bilan’s CD. And we rushed along Rublyovka. He opened the window and the disk flew off into the darkness. Stas will scream: “What have you done?! My wife will kill me, this is her album!” Dima Bilan, let's get out of here ( laughs). Just don’t write about it, maybe Bilan will be offended.

- How do you feel about chanson?

I know what it is, but you need to understand everything well. This is the music of bandits and police, right?

- In general, true.

Argentina also has one. Cumbia villera. Music for the mafia.

- What style do you like?

Blues. My bar, by the way, is called Balcón de Blues.

- "Boca Juniors", bar, band. What else?

I have a small sportswear store called "Che Diego" - from Che Guevara and Maradona. We sew everything ourselves. I also have my own TV show about rock music. "It's time for rock and roll." I'm the presenter. Previously there was a radio, now they called me to the screen.

- How do you have enough time for everything?

Coaching comes first. My friends run the bar and the store. I gave them a job.

TANASIEVICH IS A KILLER!

- Remember Spartak goalkeeper Wojciech Kowalewski? He also has his own bar in his native Suwalki - Brama.

Oh, like a frothy drink from Brazil. I know Wojciech. After all, he came to Torpedo-Metallurg in 2003, like me. But then he immediately moved to Spartak. Bald, tall. I was scared of him when I first met him! And in life he is a very good and kind person. As they say, appearances are deceiving.

- Is Yop the same?

Absolutely. My friend is Mariusz Jop.

- Who is the scariest defender you played against?

Tanasevich. From Dynamo. Before the match he sweetly asked: “Hello, my friend, how are you?” Then bam - get hit in the legs. Killed you! And then: “Oh, sorry, sorry, I didn’t mean to, I didn’t see.” ( Laughs)

- Who was the toughest of the coaches? Blokhin?

A strong specialist with character. We had a lot of problems with him. I didn't like his training. He didn't like everything I did. But we wanted one thing - to win. Therefore, in the end they understood each other. It’s the same with Petrakov: at first it was hard, but then the relationship improved.

- Mauricio, with whom you played at Terek, said that you are like a father to him.

- In terms of?

We were close friends. I was a witness at his wedding. He promised to name his son after me. But... He called it differently. That's why I'm very angry with him. Just kidding, of course. Otherwise he will read it and be scared. We are great friends!

- Are the Berezutsky brothers and Ignashevich softer than Tanasevich?

Marvelous. I came to Russia in 2003, they were on the national team. I come as a veteran in 2016, they are still in the national team. When I come to the World Cup in 2018, will they still play?

- Waiting for you as coach of the Argentina national team?

No, I won't have time ( smiling). I don’t know in what capacity I will fly here in two years, where I will sleep and what I will eat. But I'll be here! In Argentina, everyone dreams of Messi becoming world champion. Two years ago we were so close...

- Have you been to matches in Brazil?

My cousin played for the national team, how could I not support?

- What other brother?

Hugo Campagnaro! Now he is at Pescara. And then I was at Inter.

- Haven’t you watched the matches of the Russian national team live?

I was in Rio when Russia played Belgium. But I couldn't get a ticket. I asked Samedov. He apparently didn't read my message ( smiling).

At the 2014 World Cup, Hector Bracamonte supported the Argentina national team and, in particular, his cousin Hugo CAMPAGNARO. Photo by REUTERS

THEY STILL DON'T PAY IN ROSTOV?!

- We heard that Brazilian Mario Fernandez plans to obtain Russian citizenship.

He speaks in russian?

- No. But another Brazilian speaks - Guilherme. He has already been included in the Russian national team's Euro squad.

I don't understand such things. In the second year in “Moscow” Belous told me: “Braka, get a Russian passport and play for the national team.” I replied: “This is dishonest. You have very good strikers in Russia: Kerzhakov, Arshavin, Bulykin, Kirichenko, Pavlyuchenko. Why do you need a foreigner?” They never approached me with a similar proposal again.

- Would you agree to get a passport now?

I have Argentinean and Italian. I would have to renounce my citizenship. In addition, for an Argentinean, a trip to Russia does not cause problems - you do not need a visa, fly with peace of mind. In general, this is a personal matter for everyone. Argentine Trezeguet became world champion with France, Camoranesi with Italy. Who dares to blame them for this?

- Have football players who have received offers from Russian clubs turned to you for advice?

Yes, everyone calls and writes to me first! And then they complain: “You were praising everything, but here is such a hole!” Just kidding, of course. Although that’s what happened with Oscar Ahumada. I promised him that there would be no problems with money. But the guy did not see his first salary in Rostov very soon. I'm glad that everything has worked out at the club.

- Salary arrears of several months are still normal there.

How?! They came second! Wow, nothing changes... But that’s what’s wonderful about football. Look, Atlético is clearly poorer than Real and Barcelona, ​​and how it fights!

- A few rounds before the end of the championship, the entire Rostov squad was taken for doping control.

And everything is clean? These are not Rostov's problems. These are the problems of those who do not trust others. This usually happens if you yourself are not completely clean. Do you know what I mean? Whoever screams loudest is to blame.

Hector BRACAMONTE (in the center) celebrates a goal with his Rostov teammates. Photo by Vladimir POTERYAKHIN

I FELL IN LOVE WITH RUSSIA

- What in your house reminds you of Russia?

Balalaika. "Drink-drink-drink." It's difficult to play, there are almost no strings. I took the hookah with me. I always have vodka in my bar. We often go to eat at a Russian restaurant.

- Are you satisfied with your career?

I always set a goal to play until 40. An injury got in the way. But complaining is a sin.

- People in Russia love you and remember you with great warmth. Why do you think?

I guess I'm cute! ( Smiling). Plus, I may not be an outstanding football player, but I can do a little bit of everything. I'm different. By the way, where can I read the interview later?

- In "Sport Express".

- What is it?

Guys, things are bad. I had a conflict with a person from your publication when I played in Moscow... So it’s not worth publishing anything from our conversation. (Bracamonte said this with such a serious look that we managed to get really nervous). Haha, did you believe it?

- A little. Finally, what would you wish to Slutsky before the Euro?

I won't wish for anything. I don't like big words. I am not a diplomat in this regard. Let Leonid just continue on his way. He does everything right from the very beginning. He studies and takes care of the players.

- The next stage after the national team is a club of Chelsea level?

I'm sure he's ready! If he finds himself, for example, in Spain, he will immediately begin to absorb the mentality, language, and cuisine. Will understand every player. He's... like this. If not dark?

- Light.

Yes, a bright man!

- Will you be rooting for Russia at the European Championships?

Are there any options? Listen, I lived in Russia for nine years and fell in love with it. Otherwise, I would have left after a couple of seasons. Moscow is becoming more and more beautiful every year. Yesterday I gave my team a tour and was amazed. I went down to the subway. I missed you... My eldest daughter is almost Russian. She came to Russia when she was three months old and left when she was 10 years old. I went to school here until the fourth grade. He speaks Russian much better than me. And he constantly laughs at my pronunciation. Under no circumstances should such a language be lost. And the connection with Russia too.

"SE" thanks the International Football and Music Festival "Art Football" for their help in organizing the interview

Hector Bracamonte: “Instead of a vacation, Slutsky flew to watch Mourinho coach”

The best Argentinean of Russian football, in an interview with Match TV, recalls Ramzan Kadyrov’s machine gun, the prison of Valery Petrakov and the death of FC Moscow. The start of the Argentina national team at the America's Cup is very soon, on Match TV.

Like a son

Hector Bracamonte spent eight years in Russia and still returns here regularly. This time - for the World Championship among artists. Throughout the game with Kazakhstan, Bracamonte stood alone in the attack and from there watched as the frisky Kazakhs scored one goal after another, and from the bench and stands they shouted “La puta que te pario” to the referee. It all ended with a score of 0:7, then Argentina also lost to Iran and earned a goalless draw with Slovakia. Bracamonte won't score a goal, but will play a couple of concerts with his band.

During his career in Russia, the same major defeat as from Kazakhstan was in “Moscow”, from “Rubin” - 0:6, recalls Bracamonte. - Chory Dominguez scored four goals, it’s just a nightmare. Today was also very difficult. Argentina is all old, while the Kazakhs are young. Our entire team is my friends, musicians. They, of course, meet together on the field and play, but not like Kazakhstan. Their task is to win the championship, and we only came for friendship, for spirit.

- What are you doing now?

There is a lot to do, but the main work is in the Boca Juniors reserve team. I started in the youth school, and then, together with Rolando Schiavi, an excellent former football player, I moved to the second team. A very good place: the players are wonderful, and the club is very great, I played there for a long time.

When you first arrived in Russia, during training you couldn’t jump over a barrier and could barely stand on your feet. Why?

Adaptation was not going well. Another country, training, championship, I’m still young, another language, different food... I needed time. I’m strong, it’s just that at first in “Moscow” my form was not ideal. I even got injured right away.

- Immediately after arriving in Moscow, you got lost in the metro with Gustavo Pinto. At which station?

Yes, we got lost a thousand times. I remember one day Pinto and I wanted to see Red Square. We get on the metro, get off at Kurskaya and the first thing we see is the Atrium. But in the end it turned out to be good: we then began to live near Kursk.

- In Moscow, were you neighbors with Pablo Barrientos?

Yes, and in Argentina now too. He is at San Lorenzo, played in the championship final against Lanus (“San Lorenzo lost 0:4, Barrientos played one half - Match TV”). Pablo is a normal person, he was like a son to me in Moscow. When he had doubts, I always solved them. Pablo can be explosive on the field, but in life everyone loves him.

Barrientos once missed the bus, then overtook him, was the first to go to training, and Oleg Blokhin kicked him out anyway. How did you work under Blokhin?

This is not the only problem associated with Blokhin. Tactically, he is a very competent specialist, and he is a serious person. When a football player does not do what he should, the coach needs, as in Russian... Punish? Blokhin was in his right. Not everything was good with me either: we both have strong characters, I, like him, wanted the best for the team, so we didn’t always get along. But everything was decided. I went to almost all the matches, he was happy with me, and I with him.

push

- How many legionnaires in Russia have you taught Russian?

What do you mean I'm a teacher? I haven’t taught anyone, I’m just a translator! And why teach if no one has learned Russian? Barrientos didn’t teach, Pinto didn’t teach, Maxi Lopez, Maxi Morales didn’t teach either.

- And Mauricio says you taught him Russian.

Mauricio is my son! He taught him, yes, he helped him. And as soon as I arrived in Moscow, I spent the first week studying dictionaries. No courses - via the Internet, at home, listening to music, all by myself. I taught for four months in total, then I just spoke. Words that I often hear but don’t know, I write down in my phone. And now too, look: pushing is empujar.

You have interacted with many Argentines in the Premier League. One of them, Bariho, went to training at Saturn with eight rings.

Yes, he had a ring on all his fingers. Bariho is an unusual person, but funny and very kind. In Argentina, he grew up in bijes (that’s what we call favelas), did not go to school, the houses there are uncomfortable, without water and toilets, the people are poor. There are a lot of drugs, they kill, but the police and the governor can’t do anything. And when Bariho came to Russia and saw all these things... I was lucky, I grew up in a normal family. But if you move a hundred meters away from the best place in Buenos Aires, the worst will happen.

In general, they immediately remember the fight between Barijo and Bastia in the match with CSKA. Everyone fought there: Pavlovich, Montenegro, Jean, Zheder... Bariho seems to be the biggest psycho of them. CSKA scored in the last minutes, but at Saturn the Latin Americans were hot and loved to fight. Bastia lost his head, Zhirkov too - they started a fight.

- Tomas Cizek calls you the most fun player in Moscow. Who will you name?

Roma Adamov is very funny, he also joked a lot, but it was all in conversations. But who always makes the jokes is me. Everyone had the same problem: where are my boots, Braka, where are my boots?

Kirill Nababkin, with whom you shared a room at Moscow, once announced to the security on the radio at CSKA that the base was being captured by Spartak fans. How were you joking?

Sheshukov and Rebko had just arrived in Moscow. The training ended, they went into the shower together, I followed them with soap. I throw the soap and tell Sheshukov: come on, pick it up. Sheshukov looks at me like this! It’s a joke, I say, and he: “Braka, this is not a good joke for me. First day!"

Jail

- Terek paid about two million dollars for you. How much did your salary increase compared to Moscow?

Why are you interested? Not twice, no, less. Of course, I came to Terek because they gave more money than Moscow. We were in first place when I left for Grozny, but I ended up in Terek not only because of the money. Dmitriev (Igor Dmitriev, former president of FC Moscow - Match TV) told me: “Moscow has big problems with money, and if you go to Terek, you will help us.” Two years of contract at Terek helped me and my family.

“Moscow” did not pay me a big contract (Bracamonte’s salary at “Moscow” reached a million dollars - “Match TV”), but they needed help. Six months before the closure of the club, Dmitriev said that if the club did not find sponsors, there would be no “Moscow” in six months. Then all the Argentines were sold, and also Stas Ivanov, Oleg Kuzmin, Sergei Semak - they all left.

- You moved to Terek with an injury. What memories do you have of Chechnya?

When I played in “Moscow”, I heard only bad things about Grozny, about Chechnya, about “Terek”. Then I moved there and became convinced that everything was wrong. I know that at Terek they expected more from me: that I would take the ball and go score a bunch of goals. I didn’t play the way Terek wanted. But all the same, the people at Terek are honest, they have a Latin spirit, you know? All the Chechens behaved very well with me, just as I did with them.

- Luke Wilkshire's wife walks around Grozny without a headscarf. How's yours?

My family and I lived in Kislovodsk, and only played in Grozny. But Mauricio and I walked a lot around Grozny, rode in taxis, went to restaurants, and everything was calm. There are a couple of things you don't understand, but this is a different country, different people. Although there was nothing strange for me, I’m from Argentina.

- The story about how you pointed a loaded machine gun at Ramzan Kadyrov is not a story?

This happened on my first day at Terek! Well, this is more of a joke. The machine gun was lying in the Mercedes where we were driving, and the security immediately became alarmed. I heard that Kadyrov gives gifts to Terek players, but he didn’t give me anything. For what? No need. He communicated well with me anyway, there wasn’t a single problem. I spoke to Kadyrov like any other person, and he respected that.

- Was it in “Rostov” that you cut your hair short for the first time in Russia?

Still in Moscow. Why? Just. And the last time was a year or a year and a half ago. I told the young men: if you become champions, I will shave you naked. Well, they did. And in Russia, many trainers were unhappy with my long hair. They said: “Braka, this is inconvenient.” But they don’t bother me. One day, Dynamo decided that Bracamonte’s hair and braids were dangerous for them. The judge came and said: it's just hair, let's go play.

- You once wrote the song “Petrakov Prison.” Can you sing in Russian?

I don't remember exactly, but I'll try. “I open my eyes and don’t see my wife, I see Petrakov. I go to eat and don’t see my children, but I see Petrakov.” And everything like that. This was when we spent a lot of time at the base. We played in the Russian championship and reached the cup final. We play on Sunday and Wednesday, on Sunday and Wednesday, and then always to the base, to the base, to the base... I took the guitar: this is a prison,... [damn], I only live here.

- How many days a week does music take you away from now?

In Argentina I opened my own bar - Balcony De Blues. I have a band and I play there often. Music is my life. My brother, cousin, aunt, the whole family are musicians, and so am I. And I became a football player because everyone in Argentina wants to play football. Tomorrow we'll play with my band.

- Why didn’t you put together a group with Barrientos, Cavenaghi and Burdisso, as you dreamed of?

I wanted to record a disc where each song would feature one football player and one great Argentine musician. I wanted to, but they never recorded it. And in “Moscow”, when he played the guitar, Barrientos played along on the drums. I bought myself an electronic one in Spain. The neighbors didn't like it, the guitar was nicer. We lived in the same room with Yop, I told him: “My friend, excuse me, I’ll play the guitar.” I'm not sure if he liked listening or not.

Not stupid

The three best players in Russia for Miodrag Bozovic are Georgi Peev, Kevin Kuranyi and you. Best coach you worked with in Russia?

Bozovic is a very good person, special. Miodrag is forever in my heart, he knows how to talk to everyone, he feels the legionnaires and at the same time knows how Russians think.

But for me the best is Slutsky. I already knew in Moscow: he would be the best. That’s what I told him: you will be the coach of the national team, and then I will head CSKA. Otherwise, he wanted everything, both the national team and CSKA... Come on, Slutsky, let others work. So far it’s not working out for me with CSKA, really.

- What was Slutsky like 12 years ago?

I remember he started in the Moscow reserve team, and took over the first team after Petrakov. I’m a coach now and I understand Slutsky: I know what it’s like when you’re a coach and can’t play football anymore. When Slutsky was more inexperienced, he was more worried than now. But even then it was clear: his eyes and ears were always open. The championship ended, but he didn’t take a vacation, he flew to Italy, Spain, watched how Mourinho was trained and I don’t remember who else was at Real, Del Bosque, it seems. Slutsky studied all the time, so he has more prospects than other coaches in Russia.

- Which of Mourinho did Slutsky quote?

Yes, he has his own style. He just stole a little bit from everyone he learned from. At CSKA he had and still has different players, and Slutsky knows how to communicate with Wagner, with Musa, with the Russians. He knows the mentality of international coaches. And with the national team he got to the European Championship, and this is the first step. Then we'll see.

You worked in Rostov with Sergei Balakhnin, and now he and Slutsky are in the Russian national team. Did you know about this?

Did not know. Balakhnin is an experienced coach, I remember him. But I will say this: Slutsky is not stupid. Experienced trainers always work with him. And the person who works in the same headquarters with Slutsky is definitely a good person.

- Slutsky said that you could do nothing during training - you took care of your health for the game.

I knew what I needed, so in training I worked no more than required. An hour and a half was enough for me, two was too long for me, and I didn’t train for the last half hour. I was just walking around the field. But I played the entire 90 minutes of the match. Slutsky was ready for this.

Text: Alexander Muizhnek

Photo: Getty Images, saturn-fc.ru, RIA Novosti/Said Tsarnaev, RIA Novosti/Ilya Pitalev

Fans of “Moscow”, “Terek”, “Rostov” remember his incredible goals, dedication on every piece of the field, incredibly smart passes. Less devoted football fans will probably remember the “hairy Argentinean with a pigtail,” who in 2007 literally pulled the Moscow football club to fourth place in the Russian Championship and to the final of the National Cup. He scored with a smile, spoke excellent Russian, played the guitar and sang.

In 2012, he left Russia and disappeared from our radars. The news that Hector Bracamonte ended his football career also dates back to around the same period. In his last football club of the Second Argentine League, Rosario Central, 35-year-old Hector played only nine matches and scored one goal.

Hector Bracamonte: After I left Russia, I continued my career in the Argentine club Rosario Central. But in one of the games I suffered a severe injury - a ruptured Achilles tendon. It took two surgeries and two years of recovery to heal the injury. But in the end, the doctors still said that it was simply impossible to play football with such a leg. Yes, I felt it myself. The injury left me no choice - it was because of it that I stopped playing football. If it weren’t for the injury, rest assured, he would still be running around the field.

Stepan Chaushyan, AiF.ru: What did you do after finishing your football career?

To be honest, after finishing my career I did a lot of things. In December, the coaching courses are completed, following which I will receive a license and officially become a coach. I also continue to improve my guitar playing. I play in my own rock band called Noes Moscada (in Russian this translates as “nutmeg” - editor's note). I also have my own music show on the radio. But most of my time and energy is taken up by my work at the Boca Juniors club, where I am now a coach of youth teams for children aged under 15 and under 19 years old.

Photo: facebook.com

— Would you like to become a head coach?

- I would like to. This is exactly what I strive for. Being a coach will allow me to continue doing what I love most - football.

— There are a lot of videos on the Internet where you play the guitar and sing. Are you planning to take music seriously, or is it just a hobby?

— Music is my second love after football. This is something that I can never give up in my life, something that makes me enjoy life and energizes me. I can’t see myself without music, just like without football.

— I was at your concert in Moscow, at the Road House club, you then played for the Moscow team. How did the club treat your hobby?

— In a football club, no one should stop football players from doing anything else if it does not negatively affect their play and training. And this has never happened to me. On the contrary, playing the guitar, like any creative activity, stimulates the part of the brain that is responsible for creativity. I am sure that all football players should engage in some kind of creativity - it’s like training for the brain, which allows you to increase the speed of thought, the speed of decision-making, including on the field.

Photo: facebook.com

— In Russia, you played in three clubs, you made many friends - do you now communicate with anyone from Russia? Maybe you want to come to Russia?

— I was in Russia quite recently - in March. I was lucky because I visited not only Moscow, but also Rostov. Everywhere I was received with joy - in your country I have many friends with whom I continue to communicate. Russia is my second home. I am very grateful to her for all the opportunities that she provided me. And you know what I want to say? You won't get rid of me so easily.

— In Russia you played in “Moscow”, “Terek” and “Rostov” - which team did you like better?

— It’s a difficult question, because I have warm memories of each of the clubs I played for in Russia. I spent six wonderful years at Moscow - good times... for the most part. This is the club where I spent the best years of my career and where I played the strongest. Playing for Moscow, I grew as an athlete and as a person. But it would be dishonest not to mention Terek, for which I played in 2010 - then we were like football kamikazes - we fought to the last in every match. These are special feelings. In Rostov, although I only spent one season there, I felt like I was back home. This season has not been easy, but the main thing is that we completed the task assigned to us.

— When you played in “Moscow”, there were rumors that Oleg Blokhin demanded that you cut your famous pigtail - is this true?

— Blokhin and I had a good relationship. But sometimes sparks would fly between us because we both wanted to do what we thought would benefit the team. No offense, but in certain situations he just annoyed me. I think I had the same effect on him. The only difference is that I did it on purpose - to be angrier on the field. And Belous acted as a mediator in these relations - he softened the uncomfortable situation. True, I never heard that Blokhin thought about my hairstyle. But in Russia they still wanted to cut off my “dreadlock” (Rastafarian braid - editor's note). This was when I played for Terek - before the match with Dynamo. Representatives of the Moscow club asked me to cut off my dreadlocks because, in their opinion, I could pose a danger to their defenders. As a result, I had to call a judge and discuss this “deadly weapon” of mine with him. He decided that I could play without changing my hairstyle. As a result, I finally cut off my dreadlocks, for the first time since 2005. I did this when I realized that I would never play football again.

— Which coach in Russia was most memorable?

- Of course, Leonid Slutsky - he was the best. He is a wise, capable, excellent person, very honest, diligent and hardworking.

— After Moscow, you played in Grozny, for Terek. Its owner Ramzan Kadyrov is a very unusual person. Were there any interesting stories with him?

- These are all rumors. Yes, Ramzan Kadyrov is the president of the republic, and great power is concentrated in his hands, but at the same time, he remains the same person as everyone else, like you and me. He loves listening to music, dancing, playing football, walking, eating... You get the idea. He is young and has the same concerns as everyone else. But otherwise, of course, his life can hardly be called ordinary. When he came to our training to play football, and this happened more than once or twice, he was always friendly and communicated with us with respect. All the stories and funny situations that happened to us may seem curious to many, but for us, for those who understand the situation, they are quite normal. In general, there are many misconceptions in the world about Chechnya and the people who live there, even in Russia - in the rest of its territory. There is a lot of misinformation.

Here Hector, apparently, decided not to wake him up, because the Argentine press is replete with stories about that period of Bracamonte’s life, which relates to “Terek”. For example, the footballer himself told how he found himself in a car with Ramzan Kadyrov and became interested in the Kalashnikov assault rifle that one of the guards had. The President of Chechnya allowed the football player to hold the weapon, but did not expect that Bracamonte would accidentally point the barrel in his direction - through negligence. The player was immediately stopped by a bodyguard. A little later, the football player was shown that the weapon was loaded...

— If some Argentine football player asks for advice on whether he should go to Russia, what will you answer him?

“I won’t try to persuade him to go to Russia or talk him out of it. I will simply try to list all the objective advantages and disadvantages. In fact, I was the same and communicated with many of those Argentines who went to Russia to play before me. Surprisingly, before the move I managed to communicate with almost everyone, except my partners in “Moscow”, where I was going to go.

— Do you continue to follow the Russian championship? If yes, which team do you support?

— I continue to support Terek Grozny because my two Brazilian brothers play there, Antonio Ferreira and Mauricio. By the way, it’s very easy for me to watch the Russian Championship. Here in Argentina I watch the live broadcast while having breakfast. Usually I manage to watch one or two games a week. I also follow the success of Russian teams in the Europa League and Champions League.

— At the 2014 World Cup, the Argentina team performed very well, but Russia did poorly. What do you think is the problem of the Russian team?

— Not a single victory in the group stage is, of course, not a positive experience for Russia. But still, in this situation there are things to learn from. Yes, and everything could have turned out differently if Akinfeev’s mistake had not happened, or if Kokorin had used her best chance... This would have changed history. Of course, Russia should not allow itself to fly home after the first round of the World Cup. But, if this has already happened, we need to heal the wounds and never repeat our own mistakes again. This happens to the best teams in the world too.

— In 2018, the World Championship will be held in Russia. Do you think Russia will be able to hold the World Cup at a good level? Would you like to come to the World Championships?

— Without a doubt, I will come to the next World Championships in Russia. I want your country to now overcome the image it has in the world. If we do not take into account the sports results of the national team, the main challenge for the country will be to meet many international requirements. But I am sure that Russia will have a great 2018 World Cup. But my greatest dream for this tournament is for Argentina to finish one place higher than they did in Brazil 2014. I would also like to thank everyone who remembers me and say hello to my friends in Russia.

Hector Bracamonte: Russians are better off at home. Why do you need to go abroad?

Former Moscow striker Hector Bracamonte talks about the problems of Russian football.

Former Moscow striker Hector Bracamonte gave an interview to Soviet Sport, in which he shared his opinion about the problems of Russian football, and also told how interest in Zenit has grown in South America.

“THE ARGENTINA TEAM IS PLAYING BAD”

Articles | “And then I pointed a machine gun at Kadyrov...” Hector Bracamonte spoke about his life in Russia

- Do you like the way preparations for the World Cup are going in Russia?
- Of course, I see how people are trying, the organization is at an excellent level. Actually, this was shown by the Confederations Cup. Even then it was clear that the World Cup would be held in the same vein, if not better. I will definitely be at this tournament. I'm sure it will be amazing.

- Were you at the match Russia - Argentina (0:1)?
- No. Unfortunately, I was not invited, I only watched on TV. I will say that Argentina looked very bad. Moreover, she played weakly not only against Russia, but over the last three months. Our team has good players, but there is absolutely no team. So the main task facing the Argentine national team is to build team play. And now any opponent can beat us.

- What are these problems associated with?
- As they say in Russia: “The fish rots from the head...”. We have big problems in the football federation. There have been three presidents in two years. Plus, coaching leapfrog: within a year, three people have been head coach. This is not very good, because each player was trained under one coach, then under a second one. Hence the result.

- Experts emphasize that the team plays only thanks to Messi.
- The fact that we have Lionel on our team is very good. On the other hand, it’s sad that the team depends on one person. No matter how much of a super player he is, I think it shouldn’t be like this. Unfortunately, the match with Nigeria (2:4) exposed these problems. Everyone saw how our team played without Leo. God grant that he gets to the World Championships. He is the best football player on the planet.

- The draw will take place soon. Who would you like Argentina to play?
- It’s always good for Argentina when strong teams come across, that’s why we concentrate on them.

“THE MAIN STAR OF RUSSIAN FOOTBALL IS KOKORIN”

- Do you think the current Russian team is capable of getting out of the group at the World Championships?
- I take the match against Argentina out of the equation. Russian football players performed well against Spain. 3:3 against such a team is a good result. On the other hand, we understand that the World Cup is a completely different tournament, the stakes are high, and the teams will play at their best. I hope Russia is lucky and gets out of the group.

- Who is the main star in Russian football now?
- Kokorin. In Argentina they know about him because they follow Zenit. Five of my compatriots are on this team. And, of course, this cannot go unnoticed. All those who watch Driussi or Mammana in our country also know Kokorin, because he is their partner. His skills are highly valued in Argentina. In general, Zenit receives special attention in the Argentine press: who played how, who scored how many, and so on.

- Should Russian players try their hand abroad?
- I think that it is better for Russian football players to play at home. Here there is always a house at hand, good salaries, bonuses. Why do you need this? What is the Russian proverb, “where you were born, you are useful there...”.

Former Moscow striker Hector Bracamonte gave an interview to KV, in which he shared his opinion about the problems of Russian football, and also told how interest in Zenit has grown in South America.

“THE ARGENTINA TEAM IS PLAYING BAD”

“And then I pointed a machine gun at Kadyrov...” Hector Bracamonte spoke about his life in Russia

— Do you like the way preparations for the World Cup are going in Russia?
— Of course, I see how people try, the organization is at an excellent level. Actually, this was shown by the Confederations Cup. Even then it was clear that the World Cup would be held in the same vein, if not better. I will definitely be at this tournament. I'm sure it will be amazing.

— Were you at the match Russia – Argentina (0:1)?
- No. Unfortunately, I was not invited, I only watched on TV. I will say that Argentina looked very bad. Moreover, she played weakly not only against Russia, but over the last three months. Our team has good players, but there is absolutely no team. So the main task facing the Argentine national team is to build team play. And now any opponent can beat us.

- What are these problems associated with?
— As they say in Russia: “The fish rots from the head…”. We have big problems in the football federation. There have been three presidents in two years. Plus, coaching leapfrog: within a year, three people have been head coach. This is not very good, because each player was trained under one coach, then under a second one. Hence the result.

— Experts emphasize that the team plays only thanks to Messi.
— The fact that we have Lionel on our team is very good. On the other hand, it’s sad that the team depends on one person. No matter how much of a super player he is, I think it shouldn’t be like this. Unfortunately, the match with Nigeria (2:4) exposed these problems. Everyone saw how our team played without Leo. God grant that he gets to the World Championships. He is the best football player on the planet.

— The draw will take place soon. Who would you like Argentina to play?
— It’s always good for Argentina when strong teams come across, that’s why we concentrate on them.

“THE MAIN STAR OF RUSSIAN FOOTBALL IS KOKORIN”

— Do you think the current Russian team is capable of getting out of the group at the World Championships?
— I take the match against Argentina out of the equation. Russian football players performed well against Spain. 3:3 against such a team is a good result. On the other hand, we understand that the World Cup is a completely different tournament, the stakes are high, and the teams will play at their best. I hope Russia is lucky and gets out of the group.

— Who is the main star in Russian football now?
- Kokorin. In Argentina they know about him because they follow Zenit. Five of my compatriots are on this team. And, of course, this cannot go unnoticed. All those who watch Driussi or Mammana in our country also know Kokorin, because he is their partner. His skills are highly valued in Argentina. In general, Zenit receives special attention in the Argentine press: who played how, who scored how many, and so on.

— Should Russian players try their hand abroad?
— I think that it is better for Russian football players to play at home. Here there is always a house at hand, good salaries, bonuses. Why do you need this? What is the Russian proverb, “where you were born, you are useful there...”.

“DID NOT MEET EXPECTATIONS AT TEREK”

Moscow forward Hector Bracamonte: I’ll cut my hair and won’t be Pushkin...

— You played a lot in the Russian championship. Is it a shame that “Moscow” no longer exists?
- It's a pity. We had a great team, a great coach, and we played beautiful, interesting football.

— You also played in Terek. Do you remember this time with nostalgia?
“I’m glad that I was able to play for this club for two years. In Grozny they helped me settle down and so did my family. It was a wonderful experience. The only thing I regret is that I could not live up to the expectations that management had in me.

— Do you like today’s Russian championship?
— There are interesting games. But the problem of Russian football is that there are few games in the season. Only 30 rounds in the championship, plus the cup, and who else is lucky - European cups. In Argentina there is the Appertura, Claussura, Copa Argenta, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana. That is, a football player plays 50-60 matches a year, and you only have 30. This is very little, and such a regime will not be beneficial for a Russian football player. You have four cold months a year, and during this period it is impossible to play football.

— You played in Russia according to the “spring-autumn” system, now we have the opposite.
— Previously, we started in March and finished in November. And now they start in July, end in December, and resume in March. A player without football for three months. The second round of the championship is going slowly for you. Someone was injured, one left, the other arrived. Those who were in good shape in the first round lose it by spring. For me, it’s better when the championship takes place in one breath, without long pauses.

“THE CONFRONTATION “BOCA” AND “RIVERA” HAS BECOME CALMER”

— How do you like the current Argentine championship?
— Many people believe that all our great football players play in Europe, this is true. But, I believe that we have good young shoots and they progress, then they leave. Unfortunately, in Argentina they do not pay as much as in other countries. This is the reason for leaving.

We cannot give Driussi the kind of money that Zenit pays him. He played in his homeland, scored a lot of goals and immediately left. Sebastian's place is now played by another player in River Plate, who also scores a lot.

— Is the confrontation between Boca and River as fierce as before?
— It has become calmer (if we talk about the fans). For example, if Boca is playing at home, there will not be a single River fan in the stadium, and vice versa. Therefore, there are no hassles.