Andrey Vatutin, CSKA President:
Artem is a young player with evident talent and perspectives. We have a strong competition on his position right now, we have several star big players with rich experience of playing the key games. We considered that it is in the interests of the Russian NT candidate to try himself in the other team where he can get more playing time. That’s why we offered Artem to sign the new multiyear deal and to play on rent. But he preferred to acquire free agent status, and that’s his choice. We appreciate Artem’s devotion, work ethics, desire to help not only the main team but the junior team also. We will continue to follow his improvement, we know that he aims to reach the top European level. We are sure that with hard work he is able to transform his talent into high-class and we wish him best of luck.
Artem Zabelin:
I think that I was lucky to play alongside the greatest players in Europe for years. I am sorry that I could not use the chance to occupy the place on the roster. I am 23 yet and I still plan to approve myself on a highest level. I leave CSKA with warm feelings and appreciation towards the organization.
