The newest addition to Levski Sofia, Marko Dugandžić, reportedly turned down an offer from Indonesian club Persib Bandung to join the Bulgarian side, according to reports from Tema Sport. The 31-year-old striker, who recently debuted for Levski, prioritized continuing his career in Europe, despite the interest from the elite Indonesian club.
Dugandžić signed with Levski in early March and made his first appearance for the team in a 1-0 victory over Beroe on March 16, 2026, coming on as a substitute for Juan Pereira in the 87th minute. Prior to joining Levski, he had received offers from Romanian side Botoshani, Croatian club Osijek and Bosnian team Sarajevo, but ultimately chose to play in Sofia.
A Well-Traveled Career
Throughout his career, Dugandžić has played for a diverse range of clubs across Europe and Asia. His previous teams include Osijek, Italian clubs Ternana and Matera, Romanian sides Botoshani, CFR Cluj, and Rapid Bucharest, Russian team Sochi, Saudi Arabian club Al Ta’i, and South Korean side FC Seoul. His time with FC Seoul saw him play alongside former Manchester United player Jesse Lingard, who reportedly congratulated Dugandžić upon his move to Levski.
Persib Bandung and a Familiar Face
Persib Bandung, the Indonesian club that made an offer to Dugandžić, currently features former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player Layvin Kurzawa in its ranks. This connection adds an interesting dimension to the story, as Dugandžić would have joined a team with a well-known European player. The Indonesian Liga 1 is gaining prominence, attracting players from around the globe, but Dugandžić ultimately decided to pursue opportunities closer to home, within the European football landscape.
Dugandžić’s Decision Reflects a Desire for European Football
The decision to decline the offer from Persib Bandung highlights Dugandžić’s commitment to playing in Europe. Even as the Indonesian league offers a different experience, the striker clearly values the competitive environment and exposure that European football provides. This preference is understandable given his extensive experience playing in various European leagues throughout his career. The move to Levski represents a new chapter for Dugandžić, as he aims to contribute to the club’s success and further establish himself as a capable forward.
Levski Sofia’s Current Standing
Levski Sofia is a historically significant club in Bulgarian football, with a rich tradition and passionate fanbase. The team is currently competing in the First Professional Football League, aiming to secure a top position in the league standings. Dugandžić’s arrival is expected to bolster the team’s attacking options and provide a valuable asset in their pursuit of silverware. The club’s supporters will be eager to spot Dugandžić integrate into the team and make a positive impact on the pitch.
The forward’s debut against Beroe, though brief, offered a glimpse of his potential contribution to Levski. As he settles into his new surroundings and gains more playing time, fans will be watching closely to see how he performs and whether he can become a key player for the Bulgarian club. The coming weeks and months will be crucial for Dugandžić as he strives to prove his worth and establish himself as a valuable asset to Levski Sofia.
Levski’s next match is scheduled for March 23, 2026, against Ludogorets Razgrad. Further updates on Dugandžić’s progress and Levski’s performance can be found on the club’s official website: https://levski.com/.
What do you think of Dugandžić’s move to Levski? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
