Vladimir Putin gives Russian citizenship to two Brazilian footballers including ex-Barcelona star

VLADIMIR PUTIN has given two Brazilian football stars Russian citizenship.

Ex-Barcelona winger Malcom, who interested Arsenal and Tottenham, plus midfielder Claudinho are key men for Russian top-flight leaders Zenit.

It's claimed both former Brazil under-23 internationals wanted their new status for tax reasons.

But Zenit were quick to celebrate after the pair were amongst 38 foreigners granted citizenship by a special decree from Russian president Putin on Friday.

The Saint Petersburg club stated: "Everyone at Zenit congratulates Malcom and Claudinho on becoming citizens of Russia. 

"We wish them the best of luck and many more victories with the blue-white-sky blues!"

Putin's decision might be seen as a propaganda move, exactly a year after he launched his country's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

And Dmitry Khomukha, the ex-head coach of the Russian youth team, suggested the two players were motivated only by money.

Khomukha, who won 15 caps for Turkmenistan, is now boss of Russian third-tier club FC Kaluga.

Just before the duo's citizenship was granted, Sport24 quoted the 53-year-old as saying: “I have a negative attitude towards the naturalization of football players.

"Especially in the current situation that the national team does not participate in the tournaments and the foreign transfer has nothing to do with football.

"Here the monetary interests of the players themselves play a role. Income tax will be reduced to 15 per cent, but now they pay much more – this is the main reason.”

Former Bordeaux hero Malcom, 25, was linked with Premier League clubs before joining Zenit from Barca in 2019.

And Claudinho, 26, switched from Brazilian top-flight team Red Bull Bragantino to Zenit two years ago.