Birkirkara FC have officially confirmed the termination of contracts of defender Stefan Marjanovic, midfielder Pablo Gaitán, and forward Abubakar Asumah, marking the first step in a wider squad reshaping process ahead of the second half of the season.

The club stated that these departures form part of a broader overhaul that will continue over the coming two weeks, with further players expected to leave as Birkirkara seek to realign their squad. At the same time, preparations are already underway to strengthen the team, with new signings set to be announced during the first week of January following agreements reached with several players.

In an official statement, Birkirkara expressed their appreciation to the departing trio, thanking Marjanovic, Gaitán and Asumah for their professionalism and commitment, and wishing them well in the next stage of their careers.

A Challenging End to 2025

The changes come after a difficult run of results for the Stripes, who closed out 2025 with a heavy 6–1 defeat to league champions Ħamrun Spartans. It was a disappointing conclusion to a year in which Birkirkara had come close to securing a domestic double, only to fall short in the decisive moments.

Recent performances have underlined the need for change, with Birkirkara losing their last four league matches, including two defeats against Ħamrun Spartans, as well as losses to Sliema Wanderers and Floriana. With two Opening Round fixtures remaining against Valletta FC and Marsaxlokk FC, the Stripes are likely to finish the round in sixth place, five points adrift of Marsaxlokk.

January as a Turning Point

January is expected to be a pivotal period for coach Gianluca Festa, who will be tasked with rebuilding momentum while ensuring the club remains within its financial parameters. Before welcoming new faces, Birkirkara must first offload players who are no longer part of the club’s long-term vision, a process that has now begun.

Despite their league struggles, Birkirkara will be aiming to start the new year on a positive note when they take on S.K. Victoria Wanderers in the first round of the Meridianbet FA Trophy on Saturday, a match that could offer an early opportunity to restore confidence and set the tone for the months ahead.