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.

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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.

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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.

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War on racism? Croatians turn on FARE for reporting racist chants…

croatian flag

By Mark Baber
April 24 – In the wake of UEFA sanctioning Croatia for the racist behaviour of same of their fans, the Croatian Football Federation turned on the Head of the Football against Racism in Europe (FARE) organiser in Croatia, falsely blaming him for the team having to play Italy behind closed doors. FARE have responded with an article on their website, which explores the issue in depth.

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Ajax poised to take control of Amsterdam ArenA

Amsterdam Arena

By Jaroslaw Adamowski
April 24 – Ajax Amsterdam aims to acquire a majority stake in the company operating the Amsterdam ArenA where the side plays its home matches. The Dutch club currently has 13% of the shares in the sports facility, while the municipal authorities of Amsterdam hold a 48% stake.

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