Botev Plovdiv remains without a permanent replacement for departed head coach Dimitar Dimitrov – Hеро. Assistant coach Lychezar Baltanov is currently leading the team on an interim basis.
A dozen names have been linked with succeeding Hеро, who left his post following a poor start to the spring season, punctuated by elimination from the Bulgarian Cup at the hands of Lokomotiv Plovdiv and a defeat against Levski Sofia at the Gerena stadium. It was the loss to Levski that proved the final straw for club benefactor Ilian Filipov, who reportedly disagreed with Dimitrov’s tactical approach. Specifically, Filipov was adamant that Botev should not play with a three-man defense – a point he clarified in an interview with DIEMA Sport, revealing it as the core of the disagreement with Hеро.
Filipov reportedly targeted Lokomotiv Sofia’s current manager, Stanislav Genchev, who previously had a brief stint in charge of Botev Plovdiv during the summer of 2023. Genchev left “Nadezhda” to take over at Botev then, and the possibility of a repeat move is now being considered, according to reports. Georgi Dermendzhiev is also being considered as a potential candidate for the position.
The departure of Dimitrov, known as Hеро, followed a disappointing run of form for Botev Plovdiv. The loss to Levski Sofia on , as reported by Dnes.bg, appears to have been the decisive factor in the club’s decision to relieve him of his duties. Ivan Tsvetanov also resigned as the sporting director of the men’s first team following the defeat.
Filipov’s revelation regarding the tactical disagreement with Dimitrov sheds light on the internal dynamics that led to the separation. His insistence on avoiding a three-man defensive setup highlights a fundamental difference in footballing philosophy. The club’s benefactor clearly felt a change in approach was necessary to steer Botev Plovdiv back on track.
The potential return of Stanislav Genchev adds an intriguing layer to the managerial search. His previous, albeit short-lived, spell at Botev Plovdiv suggests a familiarity with the club and its environment. However, his current position at Lokomotiv Sofia would require negotiations to secure his services. Genchev’s previous departure from Lokomotiv Sofia to join Botev Plovdiv in 2023 demonstrates a willingness to make such a move, but whether the circumstances align again remains to be seen.
Georgi Dermendzhiev represents another viable option. While details regarding his potential interest and suitability are currently limited, his experience in Bulgarian football makes him a credible candidate. The club is clearly weighing its options carefully, seeking a manager who can implement a tactical system aligned with Filipov’s vision and restore Botev Plovdiv’s competitive edge.
The situation at Botev Plovdiv underscores the pressures faced by managers in modern football. A string of unfavorable results, coupled with disagreements over tactical strategy, can quickly lead to a parting of ways. The club’s swift action in appointing Baltanov as interim manager demonstrates a commitment to stability during the search for a permanent replacement. The focus now shifts to identifying a candidate who can not only address the team’s immediate shortcomings but also build a sustainable foundation for future success.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in Bulgarian football, changes are also occurring. Grigor Dimitrov, the tennis star, has parted ways with his long-time coach, Daniel Vallverdu, ahead of the 2026 season, as reported by Tennis Infinity. While seemingly unrelated to the events at Botev Plovdiv, this highlights a broader trend of off-season transitions within Bulgarian sports, as teams and athletes alike prepare for new challenges.
The University of National and World Economy (UNWE) in Sofia also appears in recent news, though its connection to the footballing world is indirect. A search for UNWE reveals faculty information, including that of Dimitar Dimitrov, within the Faculty of Finance and Accounting, as of .
