Sofia SHOCK IN CSKA: Marcelino asked for UNSEEN money, the “reds” in a stupor

In a stunning turn of events, CSKA Sofia — the storied Bulgarian club affectionately known as the “Reds” — find themselves in complete disarray after their purported target for head coach, Marcelino García Toral, allegedly demanded an undisclosed sum of money before committing to the club. According to sources, the figure is so far outside the club’s expectations that it has left the club’s board and fans in a state of shock.

What’s being claimed

The board of CSKA Sofia reportedly entered negotiations with Marcelino García Toral, offering what they believed to be a competitive package.

However, Marcelino allegedly counter‑demanded a sum described internally as “unseen” — meaning either extremely high, concealed in structure, or both.

This demand prompted immediate alarm among CSKA’s management, who had not budgeted for a figure of that magnitude (or complexity).

The result: the club is now in a “stupor” — frozen in decision‑making, unsure how to proceed without risking major financial strain.

The fallout for CSKA

The timing couldn’t be worse: CSKA has a history of financial issues, including unpaid wages, licensing risk and repeated appeals to fans for emergency funding.

A headline demand like this could further strain their budget, damage their credibility, and undermine their ability to retain or attract other coaches and players.

Fans, already on edge because of past instability, are reportedly frustrated and anxious. The board is believed to be meeting urgently to assess whether the offer should be withdrawn or renegotiate

CSKA’s board may attempt to renegotiate with Marcelino, seeking to reduce the demand to a more manageable figure or restructure the deal with performance‑based incentives.

Alternatively, the club may withdraw entirely and look for a lower‑cost coach to avoid jeopardizing their budget.

If the negotiation collapses, the public perception of CSKA could take a hit — possibly affecting sponsorship, ticket sales and player morale.

On Marcelino’s side, he may walk away if the club cannot meet his demand — or set a precedent for future negotiations elsew

At present, no official statement has been published by either CSKA Sofia or Marcelino García Toral confirming the demand or its size.

The term “unseen money” is vague — it could refer to large up‑front sums, hidden bonuses, complex contract terms, or something else.

Without verified numbers, it’s unclear whether this is a breakdown in negotiation tactics, a leak of internal discussions, or a deliberate move to increase pressure.