The Belgian national team made a serious statement before the start of the Nations League, after coach Emanuele Zanini announced an extended list of 49 players. The Italian specialist demonstrated a clear approach – a wide base of players, a combination of experience and young energy, as well as strong competition in every position.
The decision is not accidental. The "Red Dragons" continue their upward trend from recent years, having recorded a historic seventh place at the 2025 World Championship – the best ranking in the team's history. It is on this foundation that Zanini builds his selection for the upcoming summer.
The Return of Dero – The Strongest Signal
Among the most important news in the squad is the return of Sam Deroo. One of the leaders of Belgian volleyball is back in action after going through a tough battle with an oncological disease. His presence brings not only sporting value but also a serious psychological boost for the team. Deroo plays side by side with Simeon Nikolov in Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, where the team is currently battling in the playoffs for third place. Also in the squad is Alex Nikolov's teammate at Lube – middle blocker Wout D’Heer.
Youthful Regeneration, but Without Compromising Quality
Zanini continues the path he established with his arrival in 2022 – significant youth regeneration. The squad features names of young talents like Ferre Reggers, Seppe Rotty, and Basil Dermaux, born between 2001 and 2003. Dermaux will replace his compatriot Reggers at Italian Allianz Milano. The opposite hitter will also partner in the national team with his former teammate from Knack Volley Roeselare – setter Stijn D’Hulst.
At the same time, experience is not neglected. Core players who brought success in recent tournaments also find a place, creating a balanced structure in the squad.
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Setter | Stijn D’Hulst |
| Setter | Matthias Valkiers |
| Setter | Seppe Van Hoyweghen |
| Setter | Andre Stoliar |
| Setter | Robbe Ponseele |
| Setter | Liam McCluskey |
| Setter | Antony Moga |
| Setter | Hugo Absil |
| Setter | Tijl Van Looveren |
| Opposite Hitter | Ferre Reggers |
| Opposite Hitter | Basil Dermaux |
| Opposite Hitter | Warre Vandecruys |
| Opposite Hitter | Eliot De Vleeschhauwer |
| Opposite Hitter | Guilhem Hubert |
| Opposite Hitter | Akos Paridaens |
| Middle Blocker | Pieter Coolman |
| Middle Blocker | Wout D’Heer |
| Middle Blocker | Samuel Fafchamps |
| Middle Blocker | Mauro Lips |
| Middle Blocker | Lennert Van Elsen |
| Middle Blocker | Lasse Van Genechten |
| Middle Blocker | Martijn Colson |
| Middle Blocker | Joppe Rauwoens |
| Middle Blocker | Tuur Vanbroekhoven |
| Middle Blocker | Thibo Verbuyst |
| Middle Blocker | Jasper Verhamme |
| Middle Blocker | Joppe Wolters |
| Middle Blocker | Simon Luka Vlahovic |
| Middle Blocker | Milan Dalli Cardillo |
| Outside Hitter | Sam Deroo |
| Outside Hitter | Seppe Rotty |
| Outside Hitter | Pierre Perin |
| Outside Hitter | Simon Plaskie |
| Outside Hitter | Seppe Baetens |
| Outside Hitter | Michiel Fransen |
| Outside Hitter | Martin Lallemand |
| Outside Hitter | Gertjan Vande Velde |
| Outside Hitter | Tijmen Autobus |
| Outside Hitter | Niels Coppieters |
| Outside Hitter | Jannes Strobbe |
| Outside Hitter | Berre Van Looveren |
| Outside Hitter | Yarno De Leeuw |
| Outside Hitter | Gilles Vandecaveye |
| Libero | Gorik Lantsoght |
| Libero | Kobe Verwimp |
| Libero | Mathis Verwimp |
| Libero | Martin Lechien |
| Libero | Nathan Perin |
| Libero | Dennis Deroey |
The extended list clearly shows the staff's intention to work in depth:
9 setters
6 opposite hitters
14 middle blockers
14 outside hitters
6 liberos
This distribution suggests that there will be serious internal competition already during the preparation period, especially among outside hitters and middle blockers, where the choice is widest.
A look at the VNL and beyond
For Belgium, participation in the Volleyball Nations League will be the first in eight years. The tournament will play a key role not only in terms of results, but also as a stage in team building before the European Championship.
The "Red Dragons'" schedule also includes their first clash with Bulgaria in the VNL tournament on June 10 in Brazil.
A list of 49 names is not just a formality – it's a strategic move. Belgium enters the VNL with the ambition to solidify its position in the world elite, and the broad selection gives Zannini the necessary tools to seek the best formula.
If the competition within the squad translates into quality on the court, the "Red Dragons" could prove to be one of the most awkward opponents this summer.
photos: Nikolay Varadinov
