Plovdiv, Bulgaria – At 71 years old, Georgi Dermendzhiev is reportedly nearing a return to coaching, with strong indications he’s a leading candidate to take the helm at Botev Plovdiv. The experienced manager, who previously guided Ludogorets to two Champions League group stage appearances, is currently unattached.
According to reports, another potential option for Botev is Stamen Belchev. Zlatomir Zagorchich has also been discussed as a possibility. Ivaylo Petev and Alexander Tomash have been ruled out as contenders, having been previously considered before the appointment of Hristo Stoichkov – known as “Hеро” – as manager.
Botev’s benefactor, Ilian Filipov, has reportedly been presented with several foreign coaching options, but has been resolute in his preference for a Bulgarian manager.
Dermendzhiev is currently serving as a consultant to Nikolai Panayotov, the young manager of Sevlievo. Filipov’s vision includes fostering the development of another young coach, Lychezar Baltanov, under Dermendzhiev’s mentorship. Baltanov will lead Botev Plovdiv against Ludogorets on Monday at 18:00 local time at the “Kolezh” stadium. Todor Kiselichkov, previously an assistant to Dermendzhiev, is not currently being considered as an interim option.
Dermendzhiev’s potential appointment represents a significant move for Botev Plovdiv, a club seeking stability and a return to prominence in Bulgarian football. His track record, particularly his success in navigating Ludogorets through the Champions League qualifying rounds and into the group stages in both 2014 and 2015, makes him an attractive candidate.
His 2014 Champions League qualification with Ludogorets was a landmark achievement, making him the second Bulgarian manager – after Stanimir Stoilov in 2006 – to achieve that feat. He also holds the distinction of being the first Bulgarian coach to secure a win in the Champions League group phase, a 1-0 victory over Basel in October 2014.
Dermendzhiev’s career began as a defender, playing for Slavia Sofia (1976-1981) and Yantra Gabrovo (1981-1988), accumulating 219 appearances and scoring 5 goals in the Bulgarian top flight. He later had a stint with Spartak Plovdiv (1988-1990).
His managerial career has been diverse, encompassing roles at Spartak Plovdiv, Litex Lovech (as an assistant), Botev Plovdiv (as an assistant), Sliven (both as an assistant and manager), Ludogorets Razgrad (multiple spells as assistant and manager), Ordabasy, Levski Sofia, and the Bulgarian national team. His time at Sliven as manager in 2010-2011 saw him unable to prevent the club’s relegation.
The appointment of Dermendzhiev would signal a shift in strategy for Botev Plovdiv, leaning towards experience and tactical acumen. Filipov’s emphasis on developing young coaches alongside a seasoned veteran like Dermendzhiev suggests a long-term vision for the club. The pairing of Baltanov and Dermendzhiev is intended to create a mentorship dynamic, allowing Baltanov to learn from Dermendzhiev’s extensive experience while gaining valuable on-the-job training.
The upcoming match against Ludogorets will be a significant test for Baltanov and a potential audition for Dermendzhiev, should he be appointed as the new manager. The game will be closely watched by fans and observers alike, eager to see how Botev Plovdiv performs against one of the dominant forces in Bulgarian football.
Dermendzhiev’s current role as a consultant to Panayotov at Sevlievo demonstrates his continued involvement in the game and his willingness to share his expertise with younger coaches. This commitment to development aligns with Filipov’s vision for Botev Plovdiv and further strengthens the case for Dermendzhiev’s appointment.
The decision ultimately rests with Ilian Filipov, who has clearly prioritized a Bulgarian manager with a proven track record. Dermendzhiev’s experience, tactical knowledge, and Champions League pedigree make him a compelling candidate, and his potential appointment could mark a new era for Botev Plovdiv.