Skip to main content

Stoichkov to become CSKA Sofia president

"Yes, I can confirm that Hristo Stoichkov will be the new president of CSKA," Emil Dimitrov, who is also a president of the second division team Chavdar Etropole, told local media.

Stoichkov, who is still a Litex Lovech coach, is considered the best Bulgarian footballer of all time but is also known for his aggressive manner on the field and frequent arguments with referees and other players.

"When I'm working somewhere, I respect people I work with," Stoichkov told reporters. "At this point, I'm entirely focused on Litex and my commitment and loyalty to the club are the same."

Flamboyant Stoichkov led Bulgaria to the semi-finals at the 1994 World Cup in the United States - the Balkan country's biggest achievement in its football history.

Dimitrov said he and several "very rich businessmen" will take a controlling share in CSKA after reaching agreement with the Sofia-club owners.

"I would like to say that the new CSKA will not have a single majority owner as the shares will be divided," said Dimitrov.

"The idea is to have the Spanish model of management, like in Barcelona and Real Madrid and the fans will also have the right to hold shares."

"But there'll be a news conference on Wednesday and then you'll learn many interesting details."

Last week, CSKA were lambasted by the local media after they were beaten over two legs by Slovenia's Mura 05 on the away goals rule after a 1-1 draw on aggregate in the Europa League's second qualifying round.

After "the most shameful failure in the club's history", CSKA have sacked nine players, including captain Todor Yanchev, citing lack of effort and professionalism.