Bulgarian international Rusi Zhelev was officially presented as a new signing for the Italian Volley Tricolore (Reggio Emilia) for the 2026/2027 season. The club announced the acquisition of the outside hitter through its social media channels, and he will be part of the squad that will compete in Serie A2 after earning promotion.

The 24-year-old volleyball player remains in the Italian championship, having played for Banca Macerata Physiomed last season. In his debut campaign in Serie A2, Zhelev recorded 296 points in 28 matches, including 22 aces and 36 successful blocks.
Volley Tricolore describes the Bulgarian outside hitter as an important part of the squad for the new season, and his signing is among the club's first serious moves after returning to the second tier of Italian volleyball.
Zhelev won a silver medal with the "Lions" at the World Championship in Pasay City, Philippines. The player himself has already stated that he chose Reggio Emilia because he felt significant trust from the management and a clear vision for his development at the club.
Thus, Rusi Zhelev will continue his development in one of the strongest volleyball countries in the world, with his next goal being to help Volley Tricolore establish itself in Serie A2.