[2] Nikodimov began playing football at the age of 16 in the youth team of Septemvri Sofia, where he played until he joined CSKA Sofia at the age of 19.

During his time at CSKA, he won many honours, including six A PFG titles and five Bulgarian Cups.

He played 296 league matches, scoring 58 goals for 11 seasons.

Nikodimov began his managerial career with CSKA Sofia in 1979, guiding them to four consecutive league titles.

Nikodimov is married to Svetla and has two daughters who are volleyball players.