CSKA Sofia (Черно море) is set to add around 10 new players ahead of the 2026 season, with key returns including captain Vasile Panayotov and a potential reunion with Ilia Iliev, according to multiple reports.
Vasile Panayotov’s Return and Ilia Iliev’s Role
The club confirmed that Vasile Panayotov, 35, will remain with the team after initially being linked with a departure. Officials cited Ilia Iliev’s decision to continue as head coach as a critical factor in retaining the veteran midfielder. Panayotov, who joined in 2018, played 37 matches last season, scoring three goals and providing five assists, per Gong.bg.
Ilia Iliev’s leadership is also tied to the potential return of his son, Ilia Iliev Jr., a free-agent midfielder who previously played for CSKA. The younger Iliev, who left ЦСКА after a two-year stint, is reportedly under consideration for a move back to the club, which plans to add at least five new players this summer. “The new contract for Ilia Iliev is the main reason for these two significant returns,” a source told Topsport.bg.
10 New Signings and Squad Overhaul
CSKA Sofia aims to bolster its roster with approximately 10 new signings, targeting positions including a goalkeeper, central defender, left and right fullbacks, three midfielders, and three attackers, according to news.google.com. The club has already brought in Erkan Tombak, a right-back, and Jorge Padiya, a forward, but has not yet finalized deals for other key roles.
The team has also parted ways with players like Vlatko Drobakov, Tsvetomir Panov, and Asen Chandarov, with Chandarov expected to join Plovdiv’s “Canaries.” The squad overhaul aligns with Iliev’s vision for a more dynamic playing style, emphasizing creativity and versatility in midfield.
Pre-Season Plans and Fan Expectations
CSKA Sofia will begin its pre-season preparations on June 15, 2026, starting in Varna before moving to Tryavna for intensive training. The schedule includes six friendly matches, with a focus on rebuilding team cohesion after last season’s challenges. Fans have called for greater transparency in the transfer process, with some criticizing the club’s handling of player departures and signings.
“The supporters demand more clarity and accountability,” a fan representative stated, citing concerns over the club’s recent decisions. The team’s management has yet to address these criticisms publicly, though they have emphasized a commitment to improving performance on the pitch.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
This summer’s activity marks a significant shift for CSKA Sofia, which has faced financial constraints and inconsistent results in recent years. The potential return of Ilia Iliev Jr. and the addition of new talent could signal a renewed focus on youth development and long-term stability. However, the club’s ability to balance immediate needs with future planning remains a key challenge.
Analysts note that the success of these moves will depend on how well the new signings integrate with the existing squad. “If Iliev can attract players who fit his tactical philosophy, the team has a real chance to compete at a higher level,” a sports commentator said, referencing the club’s 2024-2025 season, which saw limited progress despite similar transfer ambitions.
For more on this story, visit news.google.com, Gong.bg, Topsport.bg, and Sporta.bg.
Find more reporting in our Sport section.
