# Botev Plovdiv club developments and derby preparations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/botev-plovdiv-club-developments-and-derby-preparations
> Updated: 2026-09-10T18:19:54.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

In late August 2026, Botev Plovdiv midfielder Georgi Milanov expressed his determination to play in the upcoming derby against Levski Sofia on August 30, despite recovering from a recent injury. Milanov, a former Levski player, noted the emotional importance of the match and cited the professionalism of Botev Plovdiv and the ambitious project led by owner Ilian Filipov as his primary motivations for joining the club.

By September 10, club benefactor Iliyan Filipov issued an emotional call to action via social media ahead of the Plovdiv derby against Lokomotiv Plovdiv. Filipov urged the players to demonstrate character, heart, and courage, stating that the match represents more than just three points and expressing his desire for the team to play with pride and honor.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: Iliyan Filipov urges Botev Plovdiv ahead of derby

Botev Plovdiv benefactor Iliyan Filipov issued an emotional plea to his players to show character and heart ahead of the upcoming Plovdiv derby against Lokomotiv Plovdiv.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/iliyan-filipov-urges-botev-plovdiv-ahead-of-derby

### 2026-08-27: Georgi Milanov aims to play in Botev Plovdiv vs Levski derby

Midfielder Georgi Milanov aims to play for Botev Plovdiv in the upcoming derby against Levski Sofia despite an injury, citing his motivation to compete against a strong opponent.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/georgi-milanov-aims-to-play-in-botev-plovdiv-vs-levski-derby

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Cite as: Botev Plovdiv club developments and derby preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/botev-plovdiv-club-developments-and-derby-preparations