CSKA showed interest in Pablo Solari, competing with Spartak Moscow and Krasnodar for his transfer. The competition for Solari's signature was fierce, with Spartak's head coach, Srdjan Stankovic, playing a crucial role in convincing the club's board to pursue the Argentine forward. Despite CSKA and Krasnodar's interest, Spartak aimed to win the race for Solari, who reportedly sought advice from Spartak player Barco, his former teammate, which significantly influenced his decision.