The Greatest Bulgarian Premier League Players Ever
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Loading... - Hannele Kivi
- 02 Jun 2023
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Bulgarian footballers have been a rare sight in the English Premier League throughout its history. However, a few exceptional players have made a significant impact on the English game. Bulgaria has produced both prolific goal scorers and versatile midfielders who have found success in England. So, who are the standout players from this Eastern European nation to have graced the Premier League stage?
Dimitar Berbatov
Dimitar Berbatov stands tall as the greatest Bulgarian to have ever played in the Premier League. He achieved legendary status during his spells at Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, thanks to his consistent goal-scoring record. At Old Trafford, he played a key role in one of Manchester United's most glorious eras, winning two league titles under the reign of Sir Alex Ferguson.
However, times have changed for Manchester United, and they are no longer the dominant force they once were when Berbatov spearheaded the attack alongside Wayne Rooney and company. In fact, in the Premier League betting odds, they are considered clear outsiders with odds of 12.00 to clinch the league title in the upcoming season. According to Premier League betting tips, their cross-town rivals, Manchester City, are the favorites to win, extending United's ten-year title drought.
In their current setup under Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United lacks a natural center-forward with a knack for scoring goals. Although Wout Weghorst was brought in on loan in January, he has failed to meet expectations. If Berbatov were playing in the present era, he would have been an invaluable asset to the team. His physicality and intelligent attacking movements would have posed a significant challenge for even the most athletic modern defenses.
Stiliyan Petrov
Stiliyan Petrov, similar to Berbatov, began his career at CSKA Sofia before making his way to the United Kingdom. He played for Celtic in Scotland before transferring to Aston Villa, where he became a prominent figure during his lengthy seven-season stay in England. Petrov was a tough-tackling midfielder who often dominated the midfield battles, leaving a lasting impact on the pitch.
During his time at Aston Villa, Petrov contributed nine goals and 12 assists in 185 Premier League appearances. Although his primary responsibilities were defensive-oriented, he occasionally made direct contributions to the scoreline, showcasing his versatility and all-round skills.
Martin Petrov
Completing the list is Martin Petrov, another player who emerged from CSKA Sofia. He was known for his nomadic career across Europe, playing for various teams such as Atletico Madrid and VFL Wolfsburg. In England, he represented Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers, primarily operating as a winger. Over the course of 117 appearances in the Premier League, Petrov recorded 16 goals and 22 assists.
Petrov is the second-highest Bulgarian goal scorer in Premier League history, trailing only Dimitar Berbatov. He is widely regarded as the finest wide player to have emerged from Bulgaria and graced the Premier League. Prior to Manchester City's takeover in 2008, Petrov had already established himself as an iconic figure at the club.
These Bulgarian legends have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Premier League. Berbatov, with his exceptional goal-scoring abilities, stands as one of the most prolific scorers in the league's history. His unique skill move, the 'Berba Spin,' further solidified his status. Stiliyan Petrov, on the other hand, is unquestionably the greatest Bulgarian midfielder to have graced the top flight. Martin Petrov, with his remarkable trickery on the wings, remains unmatched by any other Bulgarian player in the Premier League since. Although Bulgaria may not be known for its footballing prowess, it has undoubtedly made a lasting impression on the world's greatest league.
