The men's and women's teams of "Levski Sofia" held open training sessions, combined with a meeting with media representatives. Among the champions present were head coach Nikolay Zhelyazkov, captain Svetoslav Gotsev, as well as the returning club members Lazar Buchkov and Gordan Lyutskanov. Here's what they stated to journalists, as quoted by the club's website.

Nikolay Zhelyazkov:

"A very interesting and competitive season awaits us. We are working well, but there are new things and automatisms that we need to master. The goal is to grow as quickly as possible. The absence of some players who are currently at the World Championship – setter Stoil Palev and liberos Damyan Kolev and Dimitar Dobrev – will certainly have an impact. The setter is a key figure in any team. Nevertheless, we all hope 'Levski' will have finalists at the World Championship, where Bulgaria is already in the quarter-finals in the Philippines."

Matey Kaziyski's arrival at "Lokomotiv Avia" is an absolute bonus for our championship.

Svetoslav Gotsev:

"We had a very successful year, but key figures left, and now we have a rejuvenation. This will certainly have an impact. However, it's a fact that Bulgaria is currently playing in a World Championship quarter-final with seven boys from 'Levski'. I played with some of them, they grew up before my eyes. This gives us confidence that we are doing things right and must continue to have more successes at the national level."

"Now we are starting a new production of young players who need time. Fans must show the same patience as before, for both the national team and our club team to grow."

Gordan Lyutskanov:

"Expectations are higher compared to my previous stay here, because in recent years the boys achieved great successes, especially last year – with the treble. I see that everyone strives to repeat this success. I feel at home, preparation is in full swing. I had other offers, but I decided to come back because the team is successful, plays in the Champions League, and I still don't have a gold medal with 'Levski'."

Lazar Buchkov:

"I'm returning to a championship team, and the mood is winning. I hope we repeat our successes this year. There is always pressure, but it leads to better results. Without pressure, you can't achieve success – that's why I embrace it with open arms."

"Of course, I wanted to be at the World Championship. I was on the verge of making the squad, but I didn't succeed. Still, I'm only 21 years old, and the future is ahead of me."

Radoslav Arsov:

"We have problems with some injured players, and that's why the training process isn't perfect. We are a new team, with several new girls. They need time to adjust to our system."

"Dimana is very communicative, which is great for us. Elena also adapts very quickly. For us as a club, the goal continues to be the integration of young players into the first team."

Dimana Ivanova:

"The atmosphere at 'Levski' is wonderful! I've been here for two weeks. Everything is fine. I feel very good and I'm very satisfied. I'm happy to be here. I know most of the girls. I aim for higher achievements and to learn more and more."

Elena Kolarova:

"I've been quite well received. I know most of the girls. The atmosphere is very pleasant. We are just starting to gel, but with time I'm sure it will happen. There are things I need to focus on in my elements. A lot of work lies ahead."

The preparation of "Levski Sofia" proceeds with ambitions for both teams. For the men, the focus is on rejuvenation and the rapid development of the new generation, while last season's champions aim to maintain their high level and defend their positions in the Champions League. For the women, the task is similar – integrating new and young players to continue the club's tradition and provide new impetus for future successes.

Head coaches Nikolay Zhelyazkov and Radoslav Arsov, together with their captains and newly signed players, emphasize the same line:patience, development, and ambition for new heights.

photo:levskivc.bg