Volleyball club Neftochimic 2010 once again raises the bar high! On the eve of the 2025/2026 season, the six-time Bulgarian champion attracts to its ranks a former U23 World Champion with Brazil – Ricardo Alexandre Gomes de Rego Junior, known simply as Ricardo Junior.

This transfer is further proof that the Bulgarian championship continues to be an attractive destination for high-class foreign volleyball players, especially when it comes to ambitious clubs like Neftochimic. With such names in the squad, the Bulgarian national players in the team will be able to gain experience from world-renowned players, which can only help their development. 🔥

💥 Who is Ricardo Junior?
Born on January 9, 1991, the 206-cm-tall outside hitter brings serious international experience. In 2013, he became a U23 World Champion and won the Pan-American Cup with the Brazilian national team. He also has a silver medal from the South American Club Championship with Natal (2016).

He has played in Italy (Cantù), Greece (Kifissia and Foinikas) and at various levels in his homeland – São Bernardo, Maringá, São Francisco, Apan, Tijuca, and Goiás. His last team was Foinikas.

🔄 With the acquisition of Junior, Neftochimic's selection continues to impress, as the club clearly has ambitions not only for a title in Bulgaria but also for a strong performance in European tournaments.

Ricardo Junior is expected to be a key figure in the team's attack, and his combination with the Bulgarian setters and outside hitters promises a lot of spectacle for the audience in Mladost Hall. 🏟️