The Turkish Volleyball Federation officially announced the extended roster of 30 players for the participation of the 'Sultans of the Net' in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in 2026. Head coach Daniele Santarelli's selection caused a significant stir in international circles, primarily due to the absence of several established names, including long-serving captain Eda Erdem Dündar.
The Italian specialist's decision clearly indicates a strategic change ", "a focus on rejuvenation and broadening competition within the squad, which will directly impact upcoming matches, including against Bulgaria.
The two teams will face each other on June 8 in Brazil, in the fourth match of the first VNL tournament. Last year, the teams met during the World Championship in Thailand, with the Bulgarians losing 3-0 to their southern neighbor.
Turkey's Extended Roster for VNL 2026
Setters:
Cansu Özbay, Elif Şahin, Dilay Özdemir, Buse Ünal Pehlivan, Arelya Karasoy Kocaş
Outside Hitters:
Ebrar Karakurt, Yaprak Erkek, Hande Baladın, İlkin Aydın, Saliha Şahin, Ayşe Çürük, Lisa Safronova
Opposite Hitters:
Melissa Vargas, Aylin Uysalcan, Tutku Burcu Yüzgenç, Beren Yeşilırmak, Defne Başyolcu
Middle Blockers:
Yasemin Güveli, Zehra Güneş, Sinead Jack Kısal, Berka Buse Özden, Deniz Uyanık, Aslı Kalaç, Carmen Aksoy, Ezel Balık, Merve Atlıer
Liberos:
Eylül Akarçeşme Yatgın, Gizem Örge, Merve İzbilir, Melis Yılmaz
