Fyodor Smolov, who previously played for Krasnodar and was a Russian champion with the club, revealed that he had engaged in discussions with 'Dubai United', a team in the UAE's second division. Despite the negotiations, they did not lead to a definitive agreement. He considered the move a viable option for the winter season but expressed reservations about living in Dubai for an entire year, describing it as a specific and challenging decision. Smolov expressed a desire to spend a year in Europe to gain experience, highlighting that he had already visited Dubai several times. He became a free agent in the summer of 2025 after his contract with Krasnodar concluded at the end of the previous season. Additionally, he confirmed his willingness to participate in the Russian Cup for the media football club 'Broke Boys'.