The Bulgarian Football Federation (BFU) found a replacement for the national team coach Krasimir Balakov, who left his post in unusual circumstances.
BFU announced that former Razgrad "Ludogorets" and Sofia "Levski" clubs coach Georgi Dermendzhiev will take over the national team.
Just a week ago, Bulgaria suffered a 0:6 defeat against the England national team in Sofia, but the result was overshadowed by the racist attacks, chants, and Nazi gestures by the home team's fans.
Following an international scandal and government pressure, BFU president Borislav Mihaylov resigned, and a few days later coach K. Balakov also made the same decision.
His successor G. Dermendzhiev led "Ludogorets" to three consecutive Bulgarian championships (2015-2017) and played in the UEFA Champions League group stage. In the summer of 2017, G. Dermendzhiev's "Ludogorets" eliminated Vilnius "Žalgiris" in a 1:2 and 4:1 victory in the qualifying tournament.
The 64-year-old specialist faces a tough task in reviving Bulgarian football. Since 2004, Bulgaria, which has not played in any major tournament, has suffered 4 defeats and achieved 3 draws in 7 matches in the European Championship qualifying cycle.
"Bulgaria is not the only team that loses matches. Now the most important thing is for everyone to work hard and raise the level of our football. This national team is not hopeless. We can ignite the spark in it," said G. Dermendzhiev. "I understand the seriousness of the situation and it won't be easy. But who is afraid of wolves should not go into the forest."
In his new role, G. Dermendzhiev will debut in November in a friendly match against the Haiti national team.
