Lubo Penev Thanks Supporters, Emphasizes Ongoing Need for Cancer Treatment Support

Former star Lubo Penev has provided an update on his recovery from kidney cancer, expressing deep gratitude for the support he has received while emphasizing his continued need for assistance given the long and costly nature of his treatment. The former Bulgarian international is currently in his home country to complete his convalescence after undergoing a treatment journey in Germany. He sent a message to Fernando Giner, president of the Valencia CF Players' Association, in which he clarified that the path to full recovery remains long.

Reports indicate that Penev's treatment costs ranged between €150,000 and €300,000, necessitating the collective support of several entities since his wife, Kristina Yulianova Mitseva, announced his illness last December via social media. As part of this solidarity, Walter Papazki, owner of Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia, arranged for a fully equipped medical plane to transport the former player from Germany to Bulgaria last January to continue his treatment program, drawing widespread attention from the sports community.

The legend of Spanish clubs Valencia and Atlético Madrid emphasized the difficulty of the upcoming phase in his message to his fans. Lubo Penev stated: "I thank you for the support you are giving me and for everything you are doing under these circumstances. I am in a delicate situation, and it will be difficult and long. The treatment will take a long time, and I still need your help." Several clubs and sports institutions have engaged in fundraising campaigns to cover the high medical expenses of the Bulgarian star, in recognition of his illustrious football career.