Polish champion DevelopRes Rzeszów, who was Maritsa's opponent in the Champions League group stage, made a surprising coaching change despite excellent results this season.

The club terminated the contract of Spanish coach César Hernández, even though the team was leading the TAURON Liga standings, with only one loss in 17 matches and a secure spot in the European quarterfinals. His last match was a 3:0 (25:19, 25:19, 25:20) victory against Sokół & Hagric Mogilno.

The management explained the decision with the need for "new energy and additional stimulus" before the crucial phase of the season, especially after the surprising elimination in the Cup semi-final against Budowlany Łódź.

The new head coach will be Jelena Blagojević – a two-time European champion with Serbia and a former player for the club, who was previously Hernández's assistant. Her first match in charge will be against Volley Wrocław on February 21.

DevelopRes repeated a similar move last season, when the coaching change led to a historic championship title.

photo:sport.interia.pl