Krasimir Balakov
Midfield
WORLD LEGEND
Bulgaria
Krassimir Balakov about playing in the Legends Charity Game:
“As both a former Bulgarian player and coach, it’s an honour to represent Bulgaria as part of the Legends Charity Game in Lisbon. I was lucky enough to spend several years playing for Sporting Lisbon, so to have the chance to return to such an iconic city, and play alongside some of the world’s greatest legends, while raising money for families impacted by war, is what football is truly about. This match proves that no matter where we come from, we can unite to support those who need it most."
About
The Bulgarian legend is considered to be the second best player in his country’s history behind the great Hristo Stoichkov.
Playing in attacking midfield, Balakov was a star in his own country before enjoying long spells at both Sporting CP and VfB Stuttgart across a 12-year spell at the top level. With nearly 100 caps for his country, he retired and went into coaching, taking on 12 managerial roles in 19 years.
CAREER ACHIEVEMENTS
International Level
The height of his international exploits came at the 1994 World Cup as Bulgaria earned a fourth-place finish which remains the country’s best. He also featured at both the Euro 1996 and the 1998 FIFA World Cup. Plus, he remains among his country’s highest caps.
Club Level
Five major honours won at club level across three different countries. Winning both the Portuguese and German Cups as well as reaching the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup final.
Personal Honours
Following their fourth place finish in the World Cup in 1994, he made the all-star team for the tournament after his brilliant efforts. He was also a two-time Bulgaria Player of the Year and featured three years in a row in the kicker Bundesliga Team of the Year as well as being a reserve for the FIFA World XI in 1996.
INTERNATIONAL CAREER
Bulgaria (1988-2003)
92 apps, 16 goals
CLUB HISTORY
Etar Veliko Tarnovo (1983-1990) 142 apps, 35 goals
Sporting CP (1991-1995) 138 apps, 43 goals
VfB Stuttgart (1995-2003) 236 apps, 54 goals
VFC Plauen (2005) 1 app, 0 goals