Vladimir Vladimirovich But (; born 7 September 1977) is a Russian former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. He works as director of sports for FC Chernomorets Novorossiysk.
Career
Once regarded as one of the most promising players in Europe, But signed in 1994, at not yet 17, with German side Borussia Dortmund, from local FC Chernomorets Novorossiysk, but spent his first years with the juniors.
On 21 August 1996, he finally made his first team debut, appearing in ten minutes of a 4–0 home league win against Fortuna Düsseldorf. But finished his first season with 11 matches and one goal, and added two games (three minutes total) in the club's victorious UEFA Champions League campaign, becoming the second Russian player to win the competition after Igor Dobrovolski.
In late October 2000, But left Borussia after falling out with coach Matthias Sammer, and joined SC Freiburg where he stayed for the next three seasons, appearing regularly (but also being relegated at the end of the 2001–02 campaign). In January 2004, he stayed in the country as he signed with Hannover 96, but could only collect four league appearances in one and a half years.
But returned to his country in July 2005, and signed for FC Shinnik Yaroslavl. After two years out of the game due to recurrent injuries, the 30-year-old re-joined hometown side Chernomorets, in the second division.
In June 2009, But signed with Greece's OFI Crete as a free agent, but retired from football after one unassuming season. He collected two caps for Russia whilst at Borussia.
Personal life
But's older brother, Vitali, was also a footballer – and a midfielder. He too represented Chernomorets Novorossiysk, later acting as its general manager.