Sheffield United have completed a swoop for Bulgarian full-back Mihail Polendakov for an undisclosed fee. The 18 year old comes to Bramall Lane from Septemvri Sofia as they finished fourth in the relegation stage of the Efbet Liga. Aditionally, previously he was the Bulgarian U17 captain.
Background And Rise In Bulgaria
Polendakov quickly rose through Bulgaria’s youth system starting at DIT Sofia before making the switch to Septemvri Sofia’s academy in 2018. He made his first team debut aged 15 in 2022 against Ludogorets Razgrad, following on from this he signed his first professional contract in 2023.
During the 2024/2025 season he registered 26 league appearances and contributed 2 assists for Septemvri.
Impressive International Profile
Mihail Polendakov has consistently been involved at an international level with Bulgaria, having scored twice in the U17 (who of which he captained.) Furthermore, he has worn the Bulgarian colours at an U16, U17 and most recently making his U21 debut at the impressive age of 17.
Playing style
At roughly 179 cm tall (5,10) Polendakov has a slender build. Aeriel and physical duels are seen as a heavy weakness in the teenager’s game. To make up for this he is an athletic full back with an abundance of pace and acceleration, this allows him to make impressive supporting runs, recoveries and offer a real threat to opposing defences when carrying the ball at pace.
The Bulgarian’s forward play is eccentric, with overlapping runs and passing vision although his crossing ability can be classed as inconsistent.
Strategic context
The move is part of a much broader strategy under Ruben Selles, who seems to be investing in young; youthful talent to build depth. Polendakov is seen as a long-term investment with a long development plan ahead. This gives him potential for future first team appearances.
The Bulgarian international joins fellow Bulgarian imports of Christian Nwachukwu and Ehije Ukaki. This shows us an alignment in the transfer strategy under the blade’s new ownership.
Final thoughts
Mihail Polendakov’s transfer creates a canvas for United to build a future-proof squad, via youthful and international talent. Although he still seems raw in key areas, his speed, agility and youth level leadership certainly mark him as a player to watch. Supporters should be keeping an eye out for his name in development squad fixtures, before seeing him break into the first team. He will most likely be deployed as a right back in a 433 set up although, he may also suit a wing-back role in a 352 shape due to his attacking instinct and weaker defensive ability’s.
