Penev takes head coach job at chaotic CSKA Sofia, unpaid

lyuboslav penev

By Alexander Krassimirov
April 29 – A former striker for Atletico Madrid and former Bulgarian coach Lyuboslav Penev (pictured) has taken on the job of head coach at one of the country’s biggest clubs, CSKA Sofia – unpaid. Penev will work without salary for the remaining five games of the season when his contract will expire.

Read more …

Qataris stand aside as AFC chieftains gather for Bahrain congress

AFC Congress

By Andrew Warshaw in Manama, Bahrain
April 28 – Forty-eight hours before far-reaching elections that could shape the future of Asian football, Qatar’s bid for a place at the top table of FIFA was withdrawn today after its federation vice-president Saud Al Mohannadi pulled out of the running, fuelling the prospect of a powerful alliance between the Continent’s two most influential sports officials.

Read more …

Steaua Bucharest’s badge auction to bring up to €8m but jailed Becali is not buying

Gigi Becali

By Jaroslaw Adamowski
April 28 – Steaua Bucharest’s controversial owner Gigi Becali has announced he will not seek to win the forthcoming auction of the club’s badge which is owned by the Romanian Armed Forces. Instead the businessman, who is currently serving a prison sentence for corruption, kidnapping and match-fixing, says that he wants to focus the club’s efforts on securing new transfers for the 2015/16 season and potential UEFA Champions League qualification.

Read more …

La Liga signs China’s Snow Beer to sponsorship roster

Snow beer

By Mark Baber
April 28 – The Spanish Football League (LFP) has continued its journey into China to sign sponsorship partners with the announcement of a deal with Snow Beer, China’s biggest beer brand, which will allow the Chinese brand to incorporate LFP branding and player images in its advertising in Asia.

Read more …

Stunning Bournemouth journey from rags to Premier League riches

Bournemouth celebrate

By Andrew Warshaw
April 28 – There are heartwarming football stories. And then there is the story of Bournemouth. Celebration and euphoria were mixed with sheer disbelief last night when the tiny club on the English south coast, close to oblivion only a few years ago, effectively sealed their promotion to the top flight of the Premier League for the first time in their 116-year history.

Read more …