Germany suffered a personnel blow just before one of their most important matches at the European Championship. Moritz Karlitzek will no longer play at EuroVolley 2026 due to thigh problems.
The information was officially confirmed by the German Volleyball Federation (DVV). The outside hitter has already returned to Germany, where he will undergo further medical examinations. In his place, Massimo Botti called up libero Lenny Graven, who is expected to join the team in Romania.
Karlitzek's absence comes at a particularly crucial moment. Tonight, Germany faces Olympic champions France in a direct battle for first place in Group D.
The match is also of significant interest to Bulgaria. Group D crosses with Group B, which includes our national team, in the round of 16 in Sofia. The first from Group B meets the fourth from D, the second – the third, the third – the second, and the fourth – the winner of Group D.
Therefore, the outcome between France and Germany is also part of the puzzle regarding Bulgaria's future opponent in the knockout stage.
Germany reached the decisive match after four consecutive victories, the last one being against Switzerland with 3:1 (25:19, 25:17, 22:25, 25:21). Tobias Brand finished with 25 points, and Erik Röhrs added 17. The Germans also recorded an impressive 10 aces and 11 blocks.
Now, against France, Massimo Botti will have to solve the task without Karlitzek – in a match that could have a direct impact on Bulgaria's knockout path as well.

photo: volleyballworld.com