Levski Sofia face injury doubts ahead of CSKA Sofia derby

Levski Sofia head coach Julio Velásquez confirmed that key midfielders Serginho and Akram Bouras remain uncertain for the forthcoming derby against rivals CSKA Sofia. Speaking at a press conference, Velásquez acknowledged that both players are currently in doubt as the coaching staff assesses their fitness levels ahead of the high-stakes domestic fixture.

Concerns regarding squad availability stem from recent European commitments. One Portuguese player in the Levski setup sustained an injury during the team's Europa League encounter against Jagiellonia, which ended in a 1-0 victory. This physical setback has contributed to the current selection headaches facing the technical team as they prepare for the local derby.

While some players remain questionable, others have been definitively excluded from contention. Velásquez stated unequivocally that Asen Mitkov and Radoslav Kirilov will certainly not feature in the match against CSKA Sofia. Their confirmed absence reduces the available options in midfield and attack, forcing the manager to consider alternative tactical configurations for the starting lineup.

The final decision regarding the doubtful duo hinges on immediate training assessments. Velásquez explained that the medical and coaching staff must observe how Serginho and Akram Bouras respond during the afternoon training session before making a definitive call. He emphasized that the situation remains fluid and that participation depends entirely on the outcome of these late fitness tests.

Preparation for the derby has been complicated by a congested schedule. Velásquez highlighted that the team competed in a Europa League match on Thursday and dedicated Friday solely to recovery. The manager indicated that the staff must still deliberate over various scenarios to finalize the starting eleven, balancing the need for freshness with the demands of the derby against CSKA Sofia.