Krasimir Balakov has quit as Bulgaria coach in the wake of the 6-0 Euro 2020 qualifying defeat to England which was marred by racist abuse.
England’s black players were targeted by monkey chanting in Monday night’s match, which Balakov said he had not heard.
He later issued a statement apologising to the England players and to anyone offended by the abusive chanting.
England manager Gareth Southgate talks to the referee during the Bulgaria v England match in Sofia (Nick Potts/PA)
A spokesman for the Bulgarian Football Union confirmed to the PA news agency on Friday afternoon that Balakov, who featured for his country in their run to the World Cup semi-finals in 1994, had tendered his resignation.
“I am no longer a national team coach and I wish success to the next coach. At the moment, the situation is not rosy,” Balakov said, in quotes reported by sportal.bg.
“I’m a professional and I know there are times like this in my life. I will look for my next chance. I will rest now.”
It was also reported that the BFU’s executive committee had resigned en masse.
Borislav Mihaylov, who resigned as president on Tuesday, has been replaced by Mihail Kasabov, according to reports.
