Deep Understanding of the Spanish Middlegame – Part 1 May 13, 2025 GM Dejan Bojkov

We are pleased to present a new high-level strategic course – Deep Understanding of the Spanish Middlegame – Part 1 – created by GM Dejan Bojkov and Metodi Stoinev. This project marks the beginning of a full repertoire for Black against the Ruy Lopez, developed through a well-balanced blend of modern analysis and classical ideas.

While Dejan Bojkov is well known to the Modern Chess community for his structured and insightful video lessons, Metodi Stoinev brings his depth of positional knowledge and meticulous attention to detail to the PGN annotations. With a peak rating of 2355 and two IM norms, Stoinev has earned a reputation in Bulgaria for his deep understanding of classical openings and structures.

This is not the first collaboration between Bojkov and Stoinev. Their previous course, Queen’s Gambit Declined – Understand the Carlsbad Structure, was extremely well received for its clarity and practical value. This new Spanish series follows the same spirit—blending deep strategic insights with practical decision-making.

This first installment deals with all of White’s major possibilities from move 4 through 9.h3, providing you with a solid foundation to navigate the early middlegame positions arising from the Ruy Lopez.

What’s Inside?

✅ 11 extensively annotated model games
✅ 22 interactive test positions
✅ Video version (3h 11min) by GM Dejan Bojkov

Course Structure

Exchange Variation – Bxc6 on Move 4, 5, or 6
The first three model games are dedicated to the various Exchange Variation setups: 4.Bxc6, 5.Bxc6, and 6.Bxc6. Black follows a universal setup with …Bf8–d6, supported by …f7–f6 if needed. The knight from g8 heads to g6, reinforcing control over the central light squares. These examples highlight not only the soundness of this approach but also the subtle tactical resources available in each move order.

5.Qe2 Systems – Early Queen Move

White’s 5.Qe2 is a flexible way to sidestep the Open Variation. The course covers both 6…Bc5 and 6…Be7, following 5…b5 6.Bb3. A special focus is placed on the ideas of GM Sergei Tiviakov, who is one of the main experts in this setup. In contrast to his approach, the authors provide alternative perspectives and practical ideas, particularly the early central thrust …d7–d5, inspired by the Marshall Attack.

Classical 6.d3 Line – The Kortschnoj Setup

Many top players now favor the flexible 6.d3, avoiding the sharp main lines. Black follows up with 6…d6, 7.c3 0-0, 8.Re1 Nd7!?, a system once employed by the great Viktor Kortschnoj. Depending on White’s setup, Black can choose between the aggressive …f7–f5 or a slow buildup with …Be7–f6. This is a great section for players aiming to seize the initiative without taking undue risk.

Re1 Main Line – Slow d3 Systems

The last group of games focuses on the restrained systems with 6.Re1 and early …b5 commitments. The course follows deep lines starting with 7.Bb3 d6 8.c3 0-0 9.d3 Na5, followed by …c5, …Nc6, and subtle positional maneuvering. A featured example is the Aronian–Carlsen game, which demonstrates high-level planning and deep home preparation in quiet-looking positions.

The final annotated game covers an important sideline involving 5…b5!? 6.Bb3 Be7, followed by 9.d4 without h3, as played by Shirov. Ivanchuk’s idea of …Bg4–h5 and dynamic counterplay is a standout strategic motif, showing how even small subtleties can make a big difference in the Ruy Lopez.

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for players who:

• Play 1.e4 e5 with Black and want to build a high-quality repertoire against the Ruy Lopez

• Appreciate model-game-based learning over memorizing heavy theory

• Want to deepen their understanding of classical structures and long-term planning

A Series You Can Build On

This is Part 1 of a broader repertoire series. The next parts will continue the journey into the main lines of the Ruy Lopez, helping you develop a complete and practical understanding of this essential opening from Black’s perspective.