Bulgarian Football Union partners with Double Pass to reform academies

The Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) is working with the Belgian company Double Pass to address systemic issues within Bulgarian football academies. The partnership, which began in February, aims to implement modern educational methods and create a clearer pathway from youth to professional football.

Lachezar Dimov, head of youth football development at the BFU, noted that while Bulgaria possesses talent, young players often lack sufficient playing time. He highlighted that many clubs rely heavily on players over the age of 27, and elite academies frequently lack a consistent strategy for integrating youth into senior squads.

Expert analysis from Double Pass also identified an excessive focus on short-term results in youth football. Dimov stated that the pursuit of immediate victories often comes at the expense of developing the fundamental skills and qualities necessary for long-term player growth.