At the meeting of the Management Board of the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation, a decision was made on who would take over the leadership of the women's national team. After a vote with10 votes "for",Marcello Abbondanzawas confirmed as the new head coach of the team. The other candidates —Ivan PetkovandRadoslav Arsov— received 5 and 1 vote respectively.

Contract and Goals

The Italian specialist will take charge of the team with atwo-year contract, including anoption for an additional one-year extension. The minimum goals set for him areretaining Bulgaria's place in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL)next season anda top-ten finish at the European Championship.

Biography and Coaching Career

Marcello Abbondanza, born onAugust 24, 1970, in Cesena, Italy, is among the most recognizable names in women's volleyball. His coaching career includes successes at both club and national levels.

Among the teams he has coached, the following stand out:

• MC-Carnaghi Villa Cortese(Italy)

• Rabita Baku(Azerbaijan)

• FenerbahçeandTHY Istanbul(Turkey)

• Chemik Police(Poland)

On the international stage, Abbondanza has extensive experience as a coach for thenational teams of Bulgaria, Canada, and Greece, which makes him well-acquainted with the specifics of the international calendar and the intricacies of preparing national teams.

Second Chance and Expectations

His appointment representssecond beginningin Bulgarian women's volleyball - after his first stint at the helm of the team in 2011-2014, when under his leadership Bulgaria achieved a number of strong results and built the foundation of the current generation of players.
The expectations for Abondanza now are not only forstabilizing the team, but also fora new riseafter the difficult cycle in recent years.

"The Bulgarian Volleyball Federation wishes Marcelo Abondanza success, inspiration, and many victories with the national team of Bulgaria",
states the official announcement from BFV.

Abondanza's appointment is a clear signal of a desire for stability and international experience. The Italian already knows the Bulgarian school and some of the players, which can accelerate adaptation and bring the team back among the competitive forces in Europe.
In the context of increasing competition in the Nations League, this decision shows that the BFV is betting on a proven name with a clear vision for long-term development.