Chiefy Reflects on Humorous Encounter with Former ‘Nix Star as Bold Prediction Becomes Reality: ‘He Thought I Was Mad’

Giancarlo ‘Chiefy’ Italiano reminisced about a “wild” goal scored by Bozhidar Kraev during their time together at Wellington, following the Western Sydney Wanderers player’s return to international football as they prepare to meet again this week.

This Saturday, Wellington Phoenix manager Italiano will go head-to-head with his former player Kraev when last season’s semi-finalists host the in-form Western Sydney side at Sky Stadium in the Isuzu UTE A-League.

Kraev returns to Wellington, where he previously played, after being called up to the Bulgarian national team for the first time since 2021. The 24-time international midfielder featured as the world number 82 team faced defeat in their two-legged UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation play-off.

During his two seasons with the Phoenix, which included one under Italiano’s management, the 27-year-old was highly regarded by the Wellington coach.

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“He’s probably my favourite player to chat with,” Italiano remarked with a grin during his pre-match press conference.

“You can’t help but smile when you’re speaking with him, and he’s a decent bloke, so it’s unfortunate we couldn’t keep him here last year.

“But he’s shown what he can do. It’s incredible that he’s been recalled to the national team. I remember telling him in his first year with us, ‘Your goal should be to return to the national team,’ to which he replied that I was mad.

“It’s fantastic to see him succeed, and he’s definitely earned it.”