Sliema Wanderers have strengthened their defensive department with the signing of experienced North Macedonian centre-back Vlatko Drobarov.
The 33-year-old joins the Blues after ending his spell with Bulgarian top-flight side Cherno More Varna, where he had been playing since March 2023. His contract with the Bulgarian club expired at the end of June.
Drobarov stands at 1.87 metres and is primarily deployed as a central defender, although he can also operate in defensive midfield. The right-footed defender brings considerable experience from several leagues across Europe and beyond.
Born in Skopje, Drobarov came through the youth system of Vardar and later built a career which included spells in North Macedonia, Cyprus, Armenia, Mexico, India, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Bulgaria.
He has also represented North Macedonia at Under-21 level, making four appearances.
His most recent spell came with Cherno More, where he established himself as an important member of the Bulgarian side’s defensive unit. Drobarov registered 32 appearances and played 2,829 minutes during the 2025-26 campaign, highlighting his availability and consistency over the course of the season.
Across his time with Cherno More, he made more than 100 appearances and also contributed seven goals, offering an additional threat from set-pieces.
Drobarov’s arrival provides Sliema with added height, physical strength and experience at the heart of their defence as the Wanderers continue shaping their squad for the new domestic season.
The defender is valued at around €300,000 by Transfermarkt and arrives as a free agent following the expiry of his Cherno More contract.
For Sliema, the signing represents another experienced addition as the club looks to build a side capable of challenging strongly in the Malta Premier League.
