Adrian Mikhalchishin: The Sharp Arkhangelsk Variation in the Ruy Lopez

4/18/2024 – The Sharp Arkhangelsk variation, utilized by chess masters like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana, emerges from a series of strategic moves beginning with 1.e4 e5. This rich variation offers multiple playstyles, making it a challenging preparation for opponents, with model games highlighting its diverse strategies and concepts for players of all levels.

The Sharp Arkhangelsk Variation in the Ruy Lopez

with Adrian Mikhalchishin

Great players always have their own successful variations in the opening. One of them is the Sharp Arkhangelsk variation which arises after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.O-O b5 6.Bb3 followed by Bb7 and/or Bc5.

It’s one of the most powerful opening weapons of great players like Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana. This variation is very rich, as it is possible to play in three different ways; meaning it’s much more difficult for your opponents to prepare against.

The author will show model games to underline the ideas and lines that this variation has to offer. Instead of learning moves by heart, the concepts and ideas will give you the confidence to play the opening against all levels of opponent.

This video course can be useful for every player to follow in the steps of Carlsen & Caruana!