This summer, Latvian coach Sergejs Kožans joined Bulgarian football giants CSKA Sofia as assistant to Tomislav Stipić, only to part ways after five league games. In an interview on Edmunds Novickis ”Patreon”, Kožans shared his experience at the storied but struggling club.
“We spent a long time waiting for an opportunity after being let go from Riga FC,” Kožans explained. “Then came CSKA Sofia – a big name, the most decorated club in Bulgaria. Expectations were sky-high, but the club was in a rebuilding phase with new management, no home stadium, and ongoing changes at their facilities. Perhaps that’s why they gave us a chance, as a more stable club would have hired a bigger name.”
The tenure started well, with preseason victories and encouraging performances, but cracks soon appeared. “We began the season decently, even pushing Ludogorets, the strongest team in Bulgaria, despite losing. But by August, things went downhill. We lacked depth, relied on young players, and couldn’t maintain momentum. The team had been losing since March, and perhaps the players had grown used to it. Criticism came from all sides – fans, media, and management. In Bulgaria, fan pressure is taken very seriously.”
Kožans admitted they knew the fifth match would decide their fate. “We went in knowing it was our last chance. After the loss, it was clear we’d be leaving – that’s how football works, especially at a big club. If results don’t come, the coach is always the first to go.”
Despite the challenges, Kožans remains optimistic, hinting at a new opportunity as head coach: “I’ve already agreed to a role, and once everything is finalized, it will be announced.”