Burgas Mourns Loss of ‘Zlatata’ Era Icon, Boji Darnaud
Burgas, Bulgaria – In an outpouring of grief, the city of Burgas and the Bulgarian football community mourn the loss of a legendary figure, Boji Darnaud (Bожидар Тодоров). At 66, Darnaud, a titan of ‘zlatata’ era Bulgarian football, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that defined the glory years of his beloved club, FC Neftohimik (Бургас).
Darnaud was a product of the famed Chernomorec (Балгария) youth academy, where he starred alongside other legendary talents like Rusi Gochev and Dimităr Dimchev-Hero. However, it was at Neftohimik where Darnaud etched his name into folklore. Over nine seasons, he made over 300 appearances, his leadership instrumental in guiding the ‘greens’ to unprecedented heights.
As a club official post-retirement, Darnaud’s influence didn’t wane. As technical, executive, and sports director, he masterminded Neftohimik’s meteoric rise in the 90s. Under his watch, the club finished second in the A Group in 1997, reached the Bulgarian Cup final in 2000, and twice lifted the Professional Football League Cup. European campaigns also followed, testament to Darnaud’s transformative impact.
Born on January 10, 1959, Darnaud was remembered fondly by his son, Manol, who shared the news on Facebook. "Yesterday, my father Boji Darnaud passed away at the age of 66. Many of you will remember him from these pictures. Those were the times we all long for. I am proud that my father was a part of those emotions."
Darnaud’s funeral will be held at Burgas’ Central Cemetery this Sunday at 11:30 AM. In tribute, Manol wrote, "Let’s remember him as the good man he was."
Boji Darnaud: A Footballing Life Well Lived
Rest in peace, Boji Darnaud. The game, and all who loved it, will never forget.
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