The Bulgarian national team is already drawing attention from all over Europe with its young generation, and one of its brightest names is Jasmin Velichkov \u2013 a \u201907-born outside hitter, 203 cm tall, who will be joining Vero Volley Monza in the Italian SuperLega next season.Volleyweek.bgfirst reported the transfer on April 16, and now the head coach of Bulgaria himself \u2013 Gianlorenzo Blengini \u2013 has commented on the player in an interview forthe Italian websitevolleynews.it.

Following the successes of the Nikolovi brothers, Velichkov is the next big name that promises to make Bulgaria a very serious opponent in the Olympic cycle.

WILL HE BE A PHENOMENON?

"I would approach these things carefully," Blengini explains. "Talented boys need to be well-explained that youth volleyball is one thing, and the real thing is something completely different. In real volleyball, it doesn't matter how old you are, what matters is who is better. And even those who seem like phenomena in youth categories must understand that the top is reached only with a lot of hard work, dedication, and humility."

HOWEVER\u2026 THERE IS A "HOWEVER"

"Velichkov is a boy with obvious qualities: he has advanced development in terms of play, an excellent receiving tendency, and physical attributes. But he has a lot of work ahead of him \u2013 technically and especially physically," Blengini asserts.

MATURITY ABOVE AVERAGE

"I often followed him this winter, visiting his club. Jasmin impresses not only with his play but also with the way he thinks, makes decisions, and behaves. Remarkable maturity for his age," says the coach.

IS HE READY FOR THE SUPERLEGA?

"Age doesn't matter \u2013 the level does. He already played stably in the Bulgarian league as a starter and did very well. It's time for the next step \u2013 to sacrifice a little playing time, but to gain quality in training and daily competition."

PLAY OR WORK \u2013 WHICH IS MORE IMPORTANT?

"In recent years, Velichkov has played more than he has trained. Now it's important to build a foundation \u2013 technically and physically. That will make the difference."

WILL WE SEE HIM IN THE VNL?

"He is in the extended squad, but I don't know if I will use him. The goal is for him to train with the men and raise his level. But he also needs to be a leader in the U19 and U21 national teams. This summer will be very intense for him. In my head, he should become a stable part of the men's national team next year."

The future of Bulgarian volleyball looks brighter than ever, and Zhasmin Velichkov is yet another proof that the new generation is coming in with a bang. 🇧🇬✨