Qarabag head coach Gurban Gurbanov has fined his entire squad following the team’s 3–1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao in Spain during the third round of the UEFA Champions League group stage.
According to Sportinfo.az, the decision came after what Gurbanov described as a disappointing and disorganized performance at San Mamés. Though the loss marked Qarabag’s first of the stage – after wins against Benfica (3–2) and Copenhagen (2–0) – the coach was reportedly angered by the lack of intensity and discipline shown by his players.
Gurbanov emphasized that his frustration stemmed not from the scoreline itself, but from his team’s failure to “put up a proper fight” or follow tactical instructions. As a result, the fines – said to be substantial – will be deducted from the squad’s October wage fund.
Despite the setback, Qarabag remains 13th in the Champions League overall standings with six points from three matches.
