Ilya Kirsh, a 21-year-old Russian defender for Chernomorets, has discussed a potential return to Zenit. Kirsh, who is a product of the Zenit academy and is playing for Chernomorets on loan, said that he sees no sense in thinking about the future right now, as the next year will show where he ends up. He is not concerned by Zenit's focus on foreign players, stating his desire to play for his native club. In a conversation with a "Championat" correspondent, Kirsh expressed his certainty that he will eventually be back at his home club to contribute and repay them for his upbringing, noting he spent 10 years there. He also described Zenit as the club with the biggest history in Russian football and the best supporters. His contract with Zenit expires on June 30, 2026, and his market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €300k.