The injury didn’t break him down: “Lokomotiv” extended Rakov’s contract until 2030.

Moskva’s Lokomotiv officially announced that they had extended the contract with 21-year-old winger Vadim Rakov. The new contract is valid until the summer of 2030, which highlights the club’s long-term strategy regarding this promising player.

Last season was a tough test for Rakov. In the fall, while playing for Krylya Sovetov on loan, he suffered a serious injury that required surgical treatment. Since November, he hadn’t played in any matches. But even under these tight schedules, he managed to show his skills: he scored five goals in ten matches, making him the top scorer for Samara’s team.

In April, Rakov returned to Lokomotiv’s team. During his time with Lokomotiv’s first team, he played in 46 official matches and scored three goals. On an international level, he played five matches for Russia’s youth team, scoring one goal.

The club’s management didn’t delay making a decision, despite the long recovery period. Lokomotiv sees Rakov as a key player for their attack in the coming years. The team’s successful performance in the championship (third place at the end of the season) provides a good foundation for integrating this talented player into the starting lineup.

Rakov still has a lot of work to do before the start of the new season. Lokomotiv is relying on youth and strategic planning. The contract with Rakov is a clear example of this approach.