By Alexander Krassimirov
June 9 – Embattled Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia, which has so far been refused a license to play next season, was struck another blow when former player Youness Bengelloun was awarded €407,296 (BGN 803 000) in compensation for unpaid salary. The decision was taken by a FIFA tribunal with judges from England, Croatia, Argentina, South Africa and Brazil.
The club was given one month from May 21 to pay €355,730. The second amount is €51,566, which is the interest on the amount due.
The 32-year-old French defender played as CSKA in 2012/2013. From 2009 to 2012 Bengelloun played for another Bulgarian team, Lokomotiv Plovdiv. He currently competes for FC Goa in the Indian Superleague.
Bengelloun had a number of other claims against his CSKA Sofia, but the FIFA tribunal rejected them.
FIFA explained that if CSKA Sofia did not pay on time, the case will be referred to the Disciplinary Committee of FIFA, which can impose further severe penalties on Bulgarian club, including suspension.
The future of Bulgarian club is still not clear as it is unknown whether the current owners will be able to make the necessary payments for the club license that will enable CSKA to continue playing next season.
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