Halkbank (Ankara) made a key step in building its squad for the new season, announcing that it will extend the contract with Czech opposite Marek Sotola. This decision comes at a time when the Turkish giant is aiming for titles on all three fronts they will compete on –Efeler League, Turkish Cup and CEV Champions League.
With Sotola's confirmed stay, the club officially revealed that the opposite rotation for the 2025/26 season will be formed by Tsvetan Sokolov and Marek Sotola – a combination that promises power in attack and stability in key moments.

The club's words

In its official statement, Halkbank emphasized:

"Our club took an important step in the internal transfer by deciding to continue with opposite Marek Sotola as part of squad building for the 2025/2026 season. Czech national team player Sotola, who joined Halkbank Sports Club in the 2024-2025 season, became an important part of our team with his performance and the responsibility he took in critical moments."

Sotola's performance so far

Last season, Marek Sotola impressed with his ability to carry the offensive load during absences or dips in form of the main scorers. He left his mark in both Efeler League matches and clashes in the Champions League, where Halkbank faced some of the strongest European clubs.

Significance for Tsvetan Sokolov

For the Bulgarian captainTsvetan Sokolovthe news means he will have a strong partner and competitor for the opposite hitter position. This is a prerequisite for a high level of training, rotation during a busy schedule, and maintaining freshness for the most important matches.
Both opposite hitters have a similar profile - strong attack from the back row, high efficiency in finishing points, and experience in big matches.