bulgarian Football Icon Asparuhov Declared “Bigger Than Stoichkov” in Resurfaced Marca Report
SOFIA, Bulgaria – A recently translated article from Spanish sports daily Marca has ignited debate amongst Bulgarian football fans, declaring legendary striker Georgi Asparuhov – known affectionately as “Gundi” - a more notable figure in the nation’s football history than modern icon Hristo Stoichkov. The report,originally published following Asparuhov’s tragic death in 1971,resurfaced through a translation by “Theme Sports” and highlights the enduring legacy of a player whose career was cut short at just 28 years old.
The Marca piece details Asparuhov’s evolution from a defender early in his national team career to a prolific striker following a standout goal against Austria. It underscores his impact on the European stage, citing praise from Portuguese legend Eusebio after a memorable Champions Cup tie between benfica and Levski Sofia in 1965 – a match where Asparuhov scored in a 2-2 draw in Sofia, followed by a 3-2 loss in lisbon. This renewed attention to Asparuhov’s career comes as Bulgaria continues to grapple wiht its footballing identity and the relative contributions of its greatest players.Asparuhov represented Bulgaria in three World Cups: Chile 1962, England 1966, and mexico 1970. He began his club career at Levski Sofia,interrupted by mandatory military service which saw him play for Botev Plovdiv,where he won a cup championship and finished as league runner-up. Despite interest from Italian giants AC Milan, Asparuhov famously rejected a move, stating, “There is a country called Bulgaria. There is a team in this country, which is called Levski, which you know nothing about. But this is my place.I am born here and I will die here.”
The Marca report concludes with a poignant account of Asparuhov’s death in a car accident on June 30, 1971, alongside teammate nikola Kotkov. Over half a million people attended his funeral, a testament to his status as a national hero. The resurfaced article serves as a powerful reminder of Asparuhov’s talent and unwavering dedication to Bulgarian football, prompting a re-evaluation of his place in the nation’s sporting pantheon.