📌 This is a paraphrased interview of our colleague Petar Stoyanov from "Tema Sport". You can read the full interview in today's newspaper! 📰
After two decades of a top-tier career abroad, Matey Kaziyski stands at the threshold of a new beginning. Although he admits to feeling a slight fatigue at the end of the season, he shares: "I don't fear the end. Perhaps because I had already seriously considered it a few years ago." The only thing that weighs on his heart is the moment from 13 years ago: "The situation in 2012 is the only thing I regret in my career." Although his contract with Milan is expiring, he does not rule out the possibility of one last season, but with proximity to his family and son as a priority.
Kaziyski calmly accepts his role in Milan, where the coach gives young players a chance, seeing it as the future of the team. Regarding the disappointing elimination by Lube in the playoffs, he explains: "After the euphoria of an important away victory, it was as if we handed them the second match at home ourselves. The lack of consistency in our performances throughout the season cost us dearly." He doesn't hide his admiration for the young Alex Nikolov: "He showed class himself and played very strongly. I'm glad he's healthy and I wish him only success in the future."
Although he is calm about the potential end of his career, his plans afterward are still unclear. With his characteristic sense of humor, he says: "First, I will devote myself to family idyll and mow the lawn. After that, we'll see what attracts me. I have no intention of retiring from all activity."
Memories of his move to Trento are filled with special emotion, marked by numerous trophies and personal growth. He recalls the resistance during the transfer: "On one side Slavia, on the other Dinamo Moscow. Both sides tried to stop me in every way possible. The mere fact that I managed to reach Trento was a real miracle and a turning point in my career."
His biggest regret remains his withdrawal from the national team in 2012. He explains emotionally: "At that moment, I had to swallow my pride to continue in the way things were going. And that is not something that contributes to a good result. When you do something against yourself, you cannot give 100%." Despite various public opinions, he is convinced of the correctness of his decision. In conclusion, Kaziyski shares: "I had a great journey in volleyball and I am happy with everything I have achieved. It is very difficult to achieve what I achieved in volleyball in any other field."
photos: Nikolay Varadinov
