KAZAN, Russia – Albania international Mirlind Daku appears to have played his final match for Rubin Kazan, ending his three-year spell with an emotional farewell that left teammates and fans in tears.
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| Albania international Mirlind Daku bids an emotional farewell to Rubin Kazan teammates after playing his final match for the club prior to his anticipated move to Spartak Moscow. |
The farewell strongly suggests Daku's long-anticipated move to Spartak Moscow is now imminent.
The 28-year-old continued his outstanding form by scoring against Akron, taking his tally to two goals in two league matches this season.
During his farewell speech, Daku thanked everyone at Rubin Kazan for the unforgettable journey.
"Thank you very much for these three seasons we spent together. I came from a more modest league than the Russian Premier League, and I want to thank all the Russian players for making us foreign players feel at home here. It's difficult for me, but this is part of life. What's important is that we keep the relationships we've built. Thank you very much."
According to multiple Russian media reports, Spartak Moscow is expected to pay around €11 million to secure Daku's transfer, making it one of the biggest deals involving an Albanian footballer.
Since arriving at Rubin Kazan in 2023, Daku has established himself as one of the Russian Premier League's most dangerous forwards, scoring 37 league goals while becoming the team's undisputed leader in attack.
Head coach Frank Artiga praised not only Daku's footballing ability but also his influence inside the dressing room.
"Whatever happens next, Daku is not only a great player but also a wonderful person. He has taken Rubin Kazan to another level."
Former Rubin Kazan manager Rashid Rakhimov also revealed he personally pushed for Daku's signing despite initial skepticism within the club.
"We bought him for €1.2 million, and I always believed he could later be sold for €4-5 million or more," Rakhimov said, adding that Daku has all the qualities needed to succeed at Spartak Moscow if given regular playing time.
Russian football legend Yuri Semin was equally complimentary, describing Daku as "the best player in the Russian championship" and praising Spartak Moscow for securing one of the league's top talents.
If completed, the transfer would mark the biggest step of Daku's club career and see the Albanian international join one of Russia's most successful football clubs as expectations continue to rise ahead of the new season.