A tandem of namesakes in the middle was formed by one of the leading clubs in the Greek championship — PAOK Thessaloniki, after it introduced its new signing today - Nikolay Kyrtvev. The news was officially announced by the club, which is preparing a squad with ambitions for trophies on the eve of its 100th anniversary.

A new beginning after a successful season in the Czech Republic

The 30-year-old Kyrtvev arrives in Greece after a strong season with Lvi Prague, where he won the Czech title and Cup. The Bulgarian, 204 cm tall, will be a teammate of another Bulgarian volleyball player — Nikolay Kolev, who will play his second consecutive season for the Thessaloniki team.

"I am very happy to join PAOK. I am proud to wear the jersey of such a club, one of the biggest in Greece. Kolev's presence will help me adapt quickly, because besides being a compatriot, he is also my friend," Kyrtvev shared during his presentation.

Anniversary year and new ambitions

The Bulgarian volleyball player added that he is motivated by the fact that he is coming to Thessaloniki in the year the club celebrates its 100th anniversary.
"I want to leave my mark in PAOK's history, especially in this special season. I can't wait to start and fight for trophies," he added.

Rich experience in Europe and Bulgaria

Before his stay in the Czech Republic, Kyrtvev wore the jerseys of French Toulouse and Turkish Arkas Spor Izmir, and in Bulgaria, he played for Victoria Volley, Montana, Neftochimic, Hebar, and Lokomotiv Plovdiv. He also has appearances with the Bulgarian national team, although he was not part of the selection that won silver at the World Championship in Thailand at the end of September.

PAOK's ambitions

PAOK's team finished the previous season with a final in the Greek Cup tournament and a semi-final in the championship. With the signing of Kyrtvev and the retention of key players like Kolev, the club demonstrates a clear intention to attack the top in the championship in the 2025/26 season.

Kyrtvev's transfer to PAOK is a logical step in his career — the Greek championship is stronger and more competitive than the Czech one, and the presence of Nikolay Kolev ensures a stable Bulgarian connection in the squad. Kyrtvev's height and qualities will be a serious plus for the Thessaloniki team, who often rely on aggressive play at the center of the net.
The upcoming season will be crucial not only for PAOK's ambitions but also for whether Kyrtvev will regain his place in the Bulgarian national team.