Iliya Petkov joins Grottazzolina! The Bulgarian international enters the Italian SuperLega💥We announced this upcoming transfer at the end of April, but today it is an official fact.
The Bulgarian middle blockerIliya Petkovwill wear the jersey ofLa Yuasa Battery Grottazzolinafor the 2025/26 season! The 202 cm tall player, born in Dobrich, arrives from French club Toulouse and will join the Italian club after completing his commitments with the Bulgarian national team, led by Lorenzo Blengini.
🗣️ "I was on the phone with my agent and for a few seconds I didn't say anything, I was amazed. I am super excited to play in Grottazzolina, a team with a sports history like a movie," said Petkov, who is already dreaming of his SuperLega debut.
🏐Iliya Petkov's career – from Dobrudzha to Italy:
Petkov began his journey atDobrudzha 07, with whom he won the Bulgarian Cup. Strong years followed withNeftochimik Burgas–three championship titles,andtwo national cupsдве национални купиbetween 2017 and 2021. His first international transfer was toFrench Saint-Quentin, and after a brief stay at Hebar Pazardzhik, where he again worked with Camillo Placì, he moved toPolish Skra Bełchatów, coached by Andrea Gardini.
In 2024, he played a key role inToulouse, where he recorded:
145 attack points (60% efficiency)
22 blocks
14 aces – the most among middle blockers in the French League A playoffs
🇧🇬 In the national team, Petkov is an integral part of the men's squad, having gone through all youth formations. Now he will be a teammate with another Bulgarian –Georgi Tatarov, who also wears the Grottazzolina kit and was among the best in the team last season.
✈️ During the NAS tournament in Dubai, the two did not play alongside each other, but Petkov has already experienced the atmosphere around his new club.
🔊 "I am not the tallest middle blocker, so blocking is not my strongest suit. Attack and serve are my best weapons," Petkov modestly states. "I hope many teams underestimate us. I am determined to show that the club made the right choice with me."
With this transfer acquisition and the already signed championMagali,Grottazzolinademonstrates serious ambitions for his debut season in the Super League. An exciting Italian year awaits us with two Bulgarians on the field! 🇧🇬🔥
