Former Brazil national team midfielder Jadson has refused to participate in the upcoming farewell match of former CSKA Moscow striker Vagner Love in Moscow.
Speaking to media outlet Tribuna, the 42-year-old explained that he made the decision out of respect for the Ukrainian people and his former club Shakhtar Donetsk, where he spent seven seasons during his playing career in Eastern Europe.
Despite declining the invitation to travel to Russia for the tribute fixture, Jadson emphasized that his decision was not a reflection of his personal relationship with his former international colleague, adding that he considers Vagner Love to be a wonderful friend.
Tribute match scheduled at VEB Arena
The exhibition game organized in honor of Vagner Love is scheduled to take place on 26 September at the VEB Arena, the home stadium of CSKA Moscow in the Russian capital.
The celebratory match will feature a contest between two teams designated as CSKA Legends and Friends of Vagner Love. The event has been arranged to commemorate the striker's long-standing connection with the Russian club, where he established himself as one of the team's most popular and effective attacking players.
Organizers previously announced that prominent Russian managers Valery Gazzaev and Leonid Slutsky have been appointed as coaches for the two participating teams. Both Gazzaev and Slutsky are former head coaches of CSKA Moscow who guided the club through major domestic championship campaigns and European competitions during their respective tenures.
Career statistics for Vagner Love and Jadson
Vagner Love, who is currently 42 years old, enjoyed a prominent career with CSKA Moscow across two distinct periods. His main spell with the Russian side lasted from 2004 to 2011, followed by a second stint in 2013. Across his combined time with the club, the Brazilian forward made 259 official appearances, scoring 124 goals and providing 53 assists.
Jadson, who is the same age as Vagner Love, earned widespread recognition while playing for Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk between 2005 and 2011. The midfielder was a central figure for the Donetsk team during a successful era for the club in domestic league action and European competition.
In addition to his lengthy tenure in Ukrainian football, Jadson also earned international honors for Brazil. The midfielder registered eight appearances for the Brazil national team during his career, scoring one goal for his country.
