The question of who will lift the Bulgarian First League trophy next season is already stirring debate, and former CSKA Sofia striker Stoyko Sakaliev believes his former club is poised to challenge strongly. Speaking on “Match Telegraph” shortly after celebrating his 47th birthday, Sakaliev expressed optimism about the direction of CSKA under coach Hristo Yanev, suggesting a title push in 2027 is within reach. While acknowledging the competition from Ludogorets and Levski Sofia, Sakaliev believes CSKA’s potential for growth, coupled with strategic transfers, could see them emerge victorious. The conversation centered not just on current form, but as well on the club’s future and the roles of emerging players.
Sakaliev, a beloved figure at CSKA from his playing days in 2004, now serves as a deputy director at the Yuri Gagarin Sports School in Burgas. He emphasized the positive shift in the team’s confidence and stability since the turn of the year. “The team is much more confident and stable compared to what it showed before the New Year,” Sakaliev stated. “During the preparation in Turkey, Hristo Yanev drew conclusions about the squad he will use, as well as each of the players he has at the moment. He will definitely want to build on that.” This assessment comes as CSKA looks to close the gap on league leaders Ludogorets and rivals Levski.
A Title Challenge on the Horizon?
Sakaliev is unequivocal about CSKA’s ambition: to win the title. “That has always been CSKA’s goal – the title. The team is obliged to fight for every cup it has the opportunity to win,” he said. He anticipates a more competitive squad next season, fueled by strategic player acquisitions. “From the summer, I think the team will be much better since there will be other interesting transfers to further strengthen the competition. To acquire a strong European level, so that we can boldly move forward in the tournaments when we become champions in 2027.” This timeline suggests a deliberate, long-term strategy for building a championship-winning team.
The Bulgarian First League is currently dominated by Ludogorets, who have won the last eight league titles. As of April 22, 2024, Ludogorets leads the table with 64 points, followed by Levski Sofia with 59 points. CSKA Sofia currently sits in third place with 50 points, highlighting the challenge they face in overtaking the frontrunners. The league standings demonstrate the competitive landscape Sakaliev references.
Evaluating the Current Squad
Sakaliev didn’t shy away from offering his assessment of CSKA’s current attacking options, specifically focusing on forwards Georgi Rusev (Gojoy) and Ioannis Pitas. While acknowledging Gojoy’s goal-scoring ability, he believes the player doesn’t quite fit the profile of the striker CSKA needs. “Gojoy is not my type of striker, although he scores goals. He is not the kind of player that CSKA needs. This will become clear when a class striker arrives in the future. The difference will be big,” he explained.
In contrast, Sakaliev praised Pitas, who joined the club last winter. “For me, Ioannis is an exceptional footballer who interacts well with the others. He plays strongly and moves around the entire perimeter of the attack. For me, he is much better than Gojoy.” This candid assessment provides insight into the tactical preferences and expectations within the CSKA setup.
CSKA as a Decisive Factor
With the title race heating up between Ludogorets and Levski, the question arises whether CSKA could play a pivotal role in determining the champion. Sakaliev believes CSKA’s focus should remain on securing victories, regardless of who benefits. “CSKA always goes out to play to win. Whether to help someone is a matter of perspective. Mine is different. We can beat Levski three times, but that doesn’t mean we won’t beat Ludogorets twice! And so CSKA will interfere in the title race!”
He also acknowledged the potential for CSKA 1948 to influence the outcome, adding another layer of complexity to the competition. “If the situation is different from what This proves now, then CSKA could be champion with victories over Levski and Ludogorets, but CSKA 1948 must also do something against these teams. In this format, We find opportunities not only for one or two teams, but for a third to triumph.” This highlights the unpredictable nature of the league and the potential for upsets.
Looking Ahead: The Derby and Beyond
The upcoming derby against Levski Sofia after Easter is a fixture Sakaliev remembers fondly. “The favorite memories are always when CSKA has beaten Levski. Always! Regardless of who scored a goal or contributed the most to moving forward. The essential thing is for CSKA to win and delight the fans in the stands. Every victory in the derby is important and significant.” The derby is a highly anticipated event for both sets of fans, and a win for CSKA would undoubtedly boost their title aspirations.
Sakaliev also touched upon the ongoing construction of CSKA’s new stadium, the “Bulgarian Army” arena. “I don’t think CSKA will fail to qualify for Europe, on the contrary, they will be there! The club, as well as us, the fans, will have these wonderful European evenings and big matches! I don’t doubt that at all. The solid thing is that we will also have a new stadium. Its construction is in its final stages. And it is almost ready, although I do not have direct access to these activities. What I see from the videos and pictures gives me a clear idea of what the ‘Bulgarian Army’ will appear like and how things are going in Borisova Gradina.” The completion of the new stadium is seen as a crucial step in CSKA’s development and a symbol of their ambition.
As CSKA Sofia prepares for the remainder of the season and looks towards the future, Stoyko Sakaliev’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the club’s potential. The focus remains firmly on securing a title challenge and establishing CSKA as a force in Bulgarian and European football. The next key date for CSKA fans will be the derby against Levski Sofia, where a victory could significantly impact the title race.
What are your thoughts on CSKA Sofia’s chances this season? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below.
