Statement by Iliya Petkov from the official press conference before Bulgaria's first tournament in the Volleyball Nations League:
🎙 Occasion: start in Quebec against tough opponents
During the regular press conference before the start of the first Nations League (VNL) tournament in Quebec, Canada, Bulgarian national team captain Iliya Petkov answered journalistic questions about the team's preparation and expectations. Bulgaria will faceItaly, Argentina, Germany, and hosts Canadain the first week of the tournament.
🔹 "The preparation was uncompromising"
"We are really happy with what we did."
Petkov emphasized that the preparation before departure was intensive and purposeful. 80-90% of the players started from the very beginning, which allowed for stable and coordinated work.
🔹 Control matches in Poland – difficult, but necessary
"The matches were difficult. I am not happy with the results, but they were useful."
The captain admitted that the control matches in Poland did not bring the desired result but served as a mirror for the team's weaknesses. Immediately after them, corrections began in the playing systems and training focus.
🔹 Blengini brings a new culture: intensity, focus, demand
"I am so grateful to be able to work with a coach of this caliber."
The middle blocker, who from the new season will be Georgi Tatarov's teammate in Grottazzolina, does not hide that working with coachGianlorenzo Blengini, who took over the team in 2024, is a real challenge. The Italian specialist has imposed new discipline: strict technical requirements, high intensity in training, and constant concentration.
🔹 The Nikolov brothers – the heart of the competitive spirit
"When they are together, they bring competitiveness into everything."
After joining in the last days before departing for Poland,Alexander and Moni Nikolovquickly raised the level of rivalry and concentration. According to Petkov, their presence is felt even in the locker room.
🔹 Rising Stars: Venislav Veniantov
"I'm really excited to see what he'll offer in the VNL."
Among the younger players, Iliya Petkov singled out Venislav Antov, a diagonal player for Levski, who will play in France next season, as an exceptionally progressing volleyball player, who impressed both in the club season and during preparation.
🔹 Underdogs aiming to surprise
"I don't think the spotlight affects us. We just want to show that we can win."
Although the team is not among the favorites by ranking, the captain is adamant that Bulgaria arrives with a clear mission - to fight for victories, without being distracted by media noise.
🔹 Personal Moment: Varna – home and inspiration
"Varna. On the beach. It's amazing, especially in the summer."
Finally, in response to a fan question, Iliya named his hometown Varna as his favorite place in Bulgaria.
📍 Bulgaria begins its participation in the VNL on Wednesday against Italy. Clashes with Argentina, Germany, and Canada follow. The tournament in Quebec will be the first real test for the team's new look under Blengini.
