At just 18 years old, Manuel Zlatanov is already impressing not only with his performance in the Italian SuperLega, but also with the qualities that, according to experts, could make him a key figure in the Italian national team.
The grandson of the legendary Dimitar Zlatanov received an exceptionally high evaluation from Germany's head coach Massimo Botti during the second edition of the season'sAfter Hours- the discussion show of the Italian volleyball league Lega Pallavolo Serie A.
The reason for the comment was Piacenza's convincing victory over Modena, in which the young outside hitter continued his strong performance from the start of the championship.
"With such young boys, one must approach carefully, but if nothing extraordinary happens, I expect to see him as a starter in the national team. He possesses true qualities, and not just in one element of the game," Botti stated.

The German head coach paid special attention to Zlatanov's versatility, which distinguishes him despite his tender age.
"He is a factor in attack, on serve, in reception, and in block. If you don't look at his ID, you wouldn't know he's only 18 years old."

Botti's words carry particular weight, as they come from a specialist who knows the Italian championship very well and currently leads one of the national teams in European volleyball.
For Manuel Zlatanov, the current season is an opportunity to establish himself among the leading young outside hitters in the SuperLega. And Botti's prediction shows that his performance is already generating expectations for a significantly more serious role in the Italian national team as well.

photos: Nikolay Varadinov