site.btaCSKA's Youth Academy to Be Named after Late Legend Dimitar Penev

The academy of Bulgarian football club CSKA will bear the name of the late legendary former player and coach Dimitar Penev, the club announced on Sunday. The iconic former footballer and head coach of the “Reds” and the Bulgarian national team passed away on Saturday at the age of 80.

“There are individuals who leave an indelible mark on our lives. Dimitar Penev was one of them – a symbol of the club's spirit, a winning mentality, and the enduring values that CSKA has upheld for nearly eight decades. As a sign of respect for his contribution to the CSKA institution, the club has officially decided that its future youth academy will carry the name ‘Dimitar Penev’. The reason is clear – he embodies, to the fullest extent, the skill, determination and belief in discovering and shaping football talent. Without exaggeration, he is the figure who paved the way for the greatest generation in Bulgarian football, including some of CSKA’s most legendary players,” the club said.

“The academy is currently in the process of design and construction, but it will soon become a reality and will give our children the opportunity to fully realise their abilities, talent and dreams. We believe that the legacy of the greatest Bulgarian football strategist will provide the necessary motivation for future generations to strive for the heights of Bulgarian and world football,” CSKA added.