Lube Civitanova is on the verge of making a key addition to its squad for the new season. According to information published byIl Resto del Carlino – Macerataand cited by volleyball.it, if there are no surprises, Pablo Kukartsev will be the new opposite hitter on the team, replacing Turkish attacker Adis Lagumdžija. This is another ambitious step by the club, which aims to strengthen its attacking power.
✅ World-class experience and effectiveness
Kukartsev is currently representing Argentina's national team in the Volleyball Nations League tournament, where he has already impressed with his performances. Against Italy, he entered the second set and finished with 18 points, becoming the top scorer for his team. Since the start of the VNL, he has scored 33 points with 42% attacking efficiency - solid numbers on the international stage.
🌍 International profile with a new direction towards Italy
Born in Buenos Aires in 1994, but with Eastern European roots, Kukartsev is 205 cm tall and possesses an excellent athletic profile. He has not yet played in the Italian SuperLega, but has experience in Spain, France, and most recently with French club Tourcoing Lille Métropole.
🧠 Part of Giampaolo Medei's tactical vision
Lube's coach, Giampaolo Medei, plans to play with three receivers, but Kukartsev could prove to be an important tactical asset due to his versatility. According to the source, he was preferred over other potential names such as Bruno Lima, Palonsky, and Jonas Ponzio.
🤝 Argentine connection with Alex Nikolov and Orduna
At Lube, the Argentine opposite hitter will join his compatriot, setter Santiago Orduna, who is already part of the new project. Bulgarian Alex Nikolov, one of the team's stars, also remains in the squad, promising a strong offensive line for the 2025–2026 season. This eliminates the possibility of Nikolov also being used as an opposite if a worthy replacement for the Turkish national player is not found.
🔄 Other transfers and new additions
Meanwhile, Wout D'Heer (Belgium) will replace Barthélémy Chinenyeze in the middle blocker position, and the talented Duflo-Rossi, a young French outside hitter, will also join the team.
