CSKA Sofia coach Markus Gisdol plans staff and squad changes

CSKA Sofia head coach Markus Gisdol is planning significant changes to both his coaching staff and his playing squad.

Regarding the technical staff, Gisdol intends to bring in a German goalkeeper coach in early 2027 to replace Ivaylo Ivanov. The specialist, who currently has commitments in the Bundesliga, has reportedly reached an agreement to join the club starting in January. This move aligns with Gisdol’s long-standing request to work with a trusted colleague from his home country.

On the pitch, Gisdol is expected to rotate nearly the entire starting lineup for the upcoming Bulgarian Cup match against Nesebar. This decision serves as a preventative measure to manage player fatigue following a recent match against Monaco and ahead of an upcoming trip to Denmark to face Nordsjælland. Reports suggest that central defender Dinish Almeida may be the only regular starter retained for the match, with significant changes expected in the midfield and attacking lines.